SMART District, Measure B

Should Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit District (SMART) voters continue to fund the SMART train for another 30 years through an existing sales tax?

The measure would extend an existing one-quarter-cent sales tax to fund the commuter rail system through March 31, 2059. Voters approved the existing tax in 2008, which has paid for  construction and operation of SMART. The current tax expires in 2029. Money collected from the sales tax would be placed into a special fund to be spent according to a plan included in the full text of the measure. Passes with a majority vote.

Yes Argument

Every day, thousands of riders rely on SMART to get them to school, work, medical appointments and more. By providing an alternative to driving, the train also helps reduce traffic on Highway 101 and cuts pollution. SMART is locally controlled and is subject to independent financial audits and citizen oversight. Measure B does not raise taxes; it just continues the existing SMART funding that voters already approved.

No Argument

In 2020, voters rejected an effort to extend the sales tax for 30 years. The claimed greenhouse gas emission savings are microscopic and relief from traffic on Highway 101 is nonexistent. Seniors and students ride for free, but taxpayers are paying for these “free rides.” SMART wants to extend its rail to Cloverdale, but that expansion would cost billions of dollars to finish. The money would be better spent on buses.

Key Supporters

This list represents notable organizations and individuals who have taken a position on the ballot measure or candidate, or who are funding campaigns in support or opposition. This list is not exhaustive, and may be updated.

In Support

  • Rachel Farac, mayor, Novato
  • Mike McGuire, state senator
  • Mark Stapp, mayor, Santa Rosa
  • Sierra Club Redwood Chapter
  • Sonoma County League of Women Voters

In Opposition

  • Coalition of Sensible Taxpayers
Player sponsored by