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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS REGARDING EL CERRITO’S FINANCES AND SERVICE NEEDS Q: What is the issue? A: El Cerrito faces a variety of fiscal and service delivery challenges, including continued Sacramento takeaways and the slow economic recovery. El Cerrito needs local control over local funds, for local needs. Extending existing, voter- approved funding at the one-cent sales tax rate will continue to address these needs, while keeping all funds local and ensuring that NO funds can be taken by Sacramento. Q: What is Measure R? A: Measure R, the Preservation of Citywide Services Measure, was approved by local voters in 2010 as a ½ cent general sales tax. Measure R generates revenues that have been essential in maintaining city services, including 9-1-1 emergency response, police patrols, and fire protection. In November 2014, voters will be asked about extending Measure R at the one-cent sales tax rate for 12 years. Q: What is the urgency? A: In 2010, voters approved Measure R for seven years only. If Measure R is extended at the one-cent rate, the City will be able to maintain current levels of fire protection and police services, including neighborhood patrols, crime prevention programs, and rapid 9-1-1 response times. Property crimes have increased in El Cerrito and we desire a fully- staffed police force to prevent crime from getting worse. Q: How can we be sure that funds continue to be spent properly? A: The City prides itself on transparent and fiscally prudent financial practices, which include a Financial Advisory Board, mandatory financial audits and reports to the community to continue to ensure that all voter-approved funds are spent as promised. Continuing this financial accountability is included as part of the measure renewal. Q: What priorities have the community identified? A: The City is committed to protecting or expanding the services that our community has said are important, including: • Maintaining current levels of firefighters, fire protection and emergency medical services • Maintaining rapid 9-1-1 response times, neighborhood police patrols, crime prevention and investigation • Maintaining earthquake and disaster preparedness programs • Maintaining library programs for all, and afterschool programs for children and teens • Maintaining city parks, paths and playfields • Maintaining and improving open spaces Q: Where can I get more information? A: The City will continue to keep the community informed about El Cerrito’s service and financial priorities. For more information, please visit the City’s website at www.el-cerrito.org/measure-R.