Perris voters decide a 1% sales tax increase June 2

The Riverside Record: Perris voters will decide Measure B on the June 2 primary ballot, a 1% local sales tax increase the city estimates would generate $18 million a year. The current rate of 7.75% would rise to 8.75%, putting Perris in line with Menifee, Moreno Valley, and Riverside. The measure includes a Citizens Oversight Committee and annual independent audit. Assistant City Manager Ernie Reyna told the council in February that Perris is not in financial distress but is preparing for the rising costs of public safety, local infrastructure maintenance, and insurance.

The council voted 4-1 to put the measure on the ballot. Councilmember David Starr Rabb cast the lone no vote, arguing that the city should live within its means and warning that without a sunset provision, "we'll increase our spending, and then in 10 years from now, we'll be having to come back" for another increase. If voters approve, collection starts in January, with revenue flowing to the general fund for public safety, streets and roads, and long-term fiscal stability. Groceries, prescription medication, medical and dental services, real estate, rent, and personal services are exempt.