HomeMy WebLinkAboutUUT Final Argument in FavorMeasure D is needed to modernize San Luis Obispo's current Utility Users Tax ("UUT")
in response to changes in federal law, and advances in technology — and at the same time,
actually lower the tax rate for users of new technology, from 5% to 4.8%.
Measure D sustains a vital revenue stream: San Luis Obispo's current UUT, enacted in
1973, is outdated. It has provided steady and reliable local revenue vital to our high
standard of municipal service.
Measure D keeps gp with new technologies: The original UUT was enacted at a time
when communication technology was much simpler, and only covered intrastate, landline
telephones. While cell phone and landlines are covered by the existing ordinance, newer
technologies are not. Measure D does not tax Internet use.
Measure D assures equitable taxation: Measure D will ensure that everyone pays a fair
tax, regardless of which telecommunication technology they use. It updates our current
UUT so that all San Luis Obispo residents and businesses pay their fair share, regardless
of the type of communication technology they choose.
Measure D is not a new tax. Our current rate of 5% (well below the State average of 6%)
would still apply to water, electricity and gas users, but would be lowered to 4.8% for
users of telecommunications and video services.
The City cannot risk losing this revenue. The UUT provides nearly $5 million for vital
City services, like fire and police protection, emergency medical response, parks, play
grounds, athletic fields, and recreational programs.
San Luis Obispo needs to join other media -savvy cities and keep up with changing
technology by modernizing our UUT and lowering the rate applied to newer
technologies. Please join your neighbors, community leaders and City Council members
in support of Measure D.
We Sze vhu to vote "YES" on Measure D.
John Ashbaugh, Council Member
Dan Carpenter, Vice Mayor
i5c_- drew Carter. Council Member
Jan Marx, Mayor
Kathy Smith, Council Member