On Tuesday, the Sutter County Board of Supervisors moved forward with outlining how the proposed 1% sales tax increase, Measure G, would distribute its funding if approved by voters. The new agreement detailing the revenue split between the county and its two cities was unanimously approved by county chair Mike Ziegenmeyer, vice-chair Karm Bains, and supervisor Dan Flores. Supervisors Jeffrey Boone and Jeff Stephens were absent from the meeting.
Based on an estimated generated revenue of $22.5 million if Measure G passes, the allocation plan means Live Oak will receive $750,000 annually, Yuba City would get $12.55 million, and Sutter County $9.2 million.
Under the agreement’s terms, Sutter County would retain 100% of sales tax generated in the unincorporated part of the county, an amount estimated at $5.5 million. The county would also keep 22.5% of the sales tax revenue generated within Yuba City, equating to about $3.7 million, in recognition of services provided by the county. This results in a total annual allocation of $9.2 million from Yuba City’s portion to the county.
For Live Oak, the plan is to retain all sales tax generated within the city, with a guaranteed minimum revenue of $750,000 per year from July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2029. Live Oak would not be limited to this amount and would keep any revenue generated beyond the $750,000 guarantee.
A significant provision impacts law enforcement services. No later than July 1, 2028, the Yuba City Police Department will assume responsibility for law enforcement in areas designated Beat 6 and Beat 7 under the 2000 Master Tax Exchange Agreement. These areas are currently covered by the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office. Should Yuba City be unable to take over these services by the specified date, the county would continue provision and bill the city quarterly for the actual costs incurred.
Measure G was developed to address a critical need for increased funding for first responders, roads, and water, priorities identified by approximately 2,000 county residents who responded to community surveys earlier this year. The measure is a response to what emergency responders have described as a public safety crisis, marked by increased calls and departmental cutbacks. If approved, Measure G would raise Sutter County’s sales tax rate from the current 7.25% to 8.25%. The measure also includes independent auditing, a citizen’s advisory committee, and provisions for future elections to remove it.
Prior to the unanimous approval, the board meeting included public comments from residents who voiced both opposition to and support for the measure. One resident, Richard Dickson, accused board members of not responsibly managing their personal finances, citing “bloated six figure salaries.” Liz Cervantes expressed concerns about county accountability, stating that taxpayers have the right to ask if existing funds are handled responsibly before being asked for more money. Debra Desrosiers also made remarks concerning Sutter County Fire Chief Kyle Long’s employment history.
In response to the comments, County chair Mike Ziegenmeyer invited the speakers to meet with him the following morning, an invitation they accepted. Ziegenmeyer emphasized the supervisors' role in prioritizing public safety and roads. Live Oak City Manager Ben Moody supported the measure, stating, “It’s fair and it puts us in a better spot to serve the public,” and dismissed the public comments as “just noise.” Yuba City Mayor Marc Boomgaarden also weighed in, highlighting the collaboration as “very meaningful” and in the public’s best interest, noting the challenge of providing demanded services with diminishing resources. Supervisor Dan Flores praised the collaboration between cities and the county, urging a focus on public safety and roads over external “fodder.”
Smith, whose role was not specified beyond his anticipation, anticipates that the cities of Live Oak and Yuba City will discuss the agreement at their respective council meetings next week, with ratification expected at that time.
