The Yucca Valley Revenue Measure Oversight Commission met yesterday and heard an update on how the coronavirus crisis is affecting Measure Y and Measure Z sales tax revenues. Those taxes fund an additional Sheriff’s safety specialist and detective, as well as infrastructure, quality of life programs, and help reduce residents’ sewer assessment fees. Managing editor Tami Roleff says there will be some belt-tightening required in next year’s budget…
Sales tax revenues are down significantly because so many stores are closed during the COVID-19 pandemic; the town of Yucca Valley anticipates a 25 percent reduction in sales tax revenues for this year. The vast majority of the anticipated $1.5 million in revenues will be spent on public safety, with the remaining amount dedicated toward quality of life partnerships, and zero dollars for infrastructure projects. The proposed budget continues allocations for the new detective and sheriff safety specialist positions; however, it’s estimated a 10 percent reduction in overall public safety services will be required to offset the decrease in revenues.
Sales tax revenues designated for a reduction in Measure Z sewer assessments are estimated to decrease by $1.2 million from last year.
The Town Council will have the final say on how the funds are spent and whether it will pay for programs out of its reserves.
