The Valley Transportation Authority Board approved joining a regional sales tax measure aimed at aiding public transit agencies. Senate Bill 63 proposes a half-cent sales tax increase, subject to a 2026 voter decision, projected to raise over $264 million annually for the VTA over 14 years. This funding would address the organization's deficit and Caltrain obligations while supporting transit expansions. Board members expressed mixed feelings, with some optimistic about voter support while others voiced concerns regarding potential 'tax fatigue' among residents in Santa Clara County.
The Valley Transportation Authority Board of Directors voted to join a regional sales tax measure to support struggling public transit agencies, potentially generating over $264 million annually for VTA.
Senate Bill 63, if passed, would ask voters in certain Bay Area counties to consider a half-cent sales tax increase in 2026 to cover VTA's deficit and enhance transit service.
VTA Ex-Officio Member Pat Burt emphasized the opportunity this measure could create to improve transit services, suggesting it can benefit residents instead of leading to transit loss.
Board Member David Cohen expressed concerns about "tax fatigue," worrying that Santa Clara County's decision could impact wider regional support for the measure.
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