1. It’s a renewal, not a new tax

Voters already said yes to this exact 5% rate in 2020. Measure II doesn’t raise it by a penny — it keeps the same 5% in place for 9 more years so the services it funds don’t disappear.

2. A “no” vote isn’t neutral — it’s a cut

There’s no version of “no” that preserves the status quo. The tax expires in 2028 regardless, and $7 million a year in General Fund revenue goes with it.

3. Seconds matter, and Union City is thin on the ground

9-1-1 calls for medical emergencies are rising, and in a heart attack, stroke, or accident, seconds are the difference between life and death. At certain times, Union City has just four on-duty police officers covering nearly 70,000 residents — and already has the lowest police funding per resident of comparable cities.

4. Large businesses pay their fair share

Measure II ensures large businesses pay their fair share, so homeowners don’t shoulder the entire cost of keeping Union City safe. This isn’t a residential-only tax.

5. It pays for the services people actually notice

• Rapid 9-1-1 emergency response
• Paramedic services
• Fire protection services
• Reducing crime and gun violence
• Neighborhood police patrols
• Street and pothole repair

6. Seniors and low-income households are protected

The exemption program continues without interruption for seniors age 70+, low-income residents, and PG&E CARE Program enrollees.

7. There’s real accountability built in

Independent annual audits, public reporting, and an oversight committee all continue. All funds must be used locally for Union City services and cannot be taken by the state or federal government.