Atherton city officials are exploring the possibility of becoming a charter city, which would provide them with greater control over land use and the chance to implement a real estate transfer tax. This transition could generate an estimated $4 million annually. Although financial gain was previously a key consideration, the focus has shifted towards local autonomy regarding zoning laws and regulations, especially in light of recent court decisions that have encouraged such maneuvers. A proposal could be presented to voters by November 2026.
Becoming a charter city might allow the town of Atherton to collect millions of dollars through a real estate transfer tax and potentially fend off certain state housing requirements.
The issue is having control of land use. For Atherton, because the town is nearly 100% residential, single-family, the town's most important issue for local control is land use and zoning.
The charter city designation will empower Atherton to either set its own operational rules or comply with the state, thus giving them a higher degree of autonomy in governance.
A 1% real estate transfer tax could raise an estimated $4 million a year, providing significant revenue directly benefiting the town's needs and initiatives.
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