Silicon Valley tax would raise funds to protect open space - San Jose Spotlight

"We're operating on the same revenue stream as we were since 2014. By 2041, we estimate we'll have over 1 million visitors a year in our open space system. That's why anticipating public demand and meeting it in the next 15-20 years is essential."

"Every government agency always has a story to tell about why they need more money. Sometimes the stories even sound plausible, each one by itself. But add up all the new taxes and borrowing, and it's no surprise that more and more people can no longer afford to live in Santa Clara County."

Santa Clara County residents will vote on Measure D in June, which proposes a property tax of two cents per square foot on buildings within the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority's jurisdiction. The measure would generate $17 million annually for restoring and maintaining open space, waterways, and farmland. Single-family homeowners would pay approximately $32 yearly, with a maximum cap of $7,500 per parcel and exemptions for seniors and low-income owners. The Open Space Authority projects over 1 million annual visitors by 2041, necessitating expanded infrastructure and maintenance. Critics argue the measure compounds existing county taxes, further straining residents' ability to afford living in the region.

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