Even before the crisis, Oakland, like many cities across the state, struggled with limited revenue and tight budgets to address critical needs like affordable housing and homeless services.
That’s why, now more than ever, we need the Schools & Communities First initiative – the most consequential policy measure for California’s cities, counties, school districts and small businesses.
If passed by California voters in November, this initiative would bring $12 billion every year to our local communities and schools throughout the state.
By protecting small businesses and implementing brand new tax relief on costs related to equipment, supplies, machinery and more, the Schools & Communities First initiative prioritizes the needs of our local small businesses.
We know that the opponents of Schools & Communities First will say whatever it takes to maintain the status quo, but to put it into perspective – as these corporate tax breaks continue benefiting those at the top, the city of Oakland faces an $80 million budget shortfall due to this crisis.
