Alameda County's Measure W sales tax will direct nearly $1 billion to address homelessness after a five-year legal delay. Revenue officially exceeded initial forecasts, yielding over $160 million annually since initiation in July 2021. Approximately 80% of the funds will support the Home Together Fund, assisting in both short- and long-term housing solutions, while 20% will cater to additional safety net programs. The board also established a $170 million reserve for unexpected needs, enhancing the county's capacity to tackle growing homelessness challenges amidst reductions in other support programs.
Since Measure W started collecting revenue in 2021, the general sales tax has accrued $810 million. The Alameda County Board of Supervisors decided to spend most of it on housing and homelessness services.
Local leaders argue the recently released cash from Measure W puts Alameda County in a unique position to continue progress on housing people experiencing homelessness.
The board agreed to allocate 80% of Measure W funds to the county's Home Together Fund, which is used for acquiring and maintaining housing and providing services for people experiencing homelessness.
If the tax generates more than $170 million in a given year, any additional funds would also go into the Home Together Fund.
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