COUNTY COUNSEL' S OFFICE - M. GRANGER

Discussion in regard to the Abandoned Vehicle Abatement (AVA) Fee, which narrowly missed being approved during the November 2014 election, and provide direction to staff whether to take further action to potentially place a ballot measure before the voters in the November 2016 election.

SBC FILE NUMBER: 160

Renewal of the San Benito County Abandoned Vehicle Abatement (AVA) program, and the beginning collection again of the $1 vehicle registration fee which funds the program, would require approval by San Benito County voters.  This fee was presented to the voters twice in 2014.  Both times it was defeated and as a result, the County directed the State to cease collection of the $1.00 fee. 

In November 2014, the measure could have succeeded had it obtained approximately 70 more votes (an increase of approximately .54% of the votes received.)

Despite obtaining approval by 66.13% of the voters, a 2/3 vote is required because the fee is considered a "special tax" as it is collected for a specific purpose. 

The annual revenue received from the program before it ceased was approximately $54,000. 

It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors discuss this matter, and if desired, direct staff to prepare a Resolution for a future BOS meeting, to place a measure related to the AVA fee on the November 2014 ballot.