"The county, which operates the second-largest public hospital and health care system in the state, is projecting to lose roughly $1 billion in federal revenues annually due to the cuts. Measure A - a proposed 0.625% increase to the local sales tax rate - is expected to fill a third of that budget gap, generating $330 million annually if passed."
"After first returns, 57% of voters cast ballots in favor of Measure A. The measure needs a simple majority to pass. The ballot initiative is a key part of the county's efforts to combat the funding loss, which they said could lead to shuttering health services or hospitals entirely as more than 50% of the Santa Clara Valley Healthcare system's revenues come from Medi-Cal - California's Medicaid program for low-income and disabled residents."
"Santa Clara County currently operates four hospitals and 15 clinics, with its flagship hospital, Valley Medical Center, the only dual trauma center and certified burn center in the entire Bay Area. But opponents of Measure A say that taxes are already too high. The local sales tax rate is currently 9.125% countywide, and the 0.625% increase would put Campbell, Milpitas and San Jose at a 10% sales tax rate or higher."
Measure A was trending favorably after first returns, with 57% of voters in favor. The county projects roughly $1 billion in annual federal revenue losses from recent tax and spending cuts. Measure A proposes a 0.625% local sales tax increase generating about $330 million annually, covering roughly one-third of the projected shortfall. The county operates four hospitals and 15 clinics; Valley Medical Center is the Bay Area's only dual trauma center and certified burn center. Opponents say taxes are already high: the countywide rate is 9.125% and the increase could push some cities to 10% or higher. Opposition criticized the tax as general revenue without spending restrictions.
Read at The Mercury News
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