Proposition H would establish an annual parcel tax based on the type of property and its square footage, with additional tax levied if properties exceed the base rate. Most single-family homeowners would pay $129, with added fees for homes exceeding 3,000 square feet. Base rates for multifamily parcels start at $249; nonresidential and mixed-use parcels start at $799. The measure would generate approximately $177 million annually for Muni transit operations and administration. Passes with a majority vote.
Yes Argument
Muni is a lifeline for workers, seniors and students. The agency powers the city’s economy and reduces traffic. But Muni is facing the largest budget deficit in its history due to drops in revenue and ridership related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Without Proposition H, the agency will be forced to make deep service cuts, including the elimination of up to 20 Muni routes, doubling of wait times on Metro and reducing or ending cable car service.
No Argument
Proposition H writes a blank check to the city’s Municipal Transportation Agency but does not require the SFMTA to cut costs, hit efficiency targets or act on recommendations from a mandated efficiency review. The tax is unfair because it is based on square footage, not property value, and owners of rent-controlled units can pass 50% of the tax on to their tenants. Nobody wants service cuts, but this tax is not the only option.
Key Supporters
In Support
- Daniel Lurie, mayor, San Francisco
- Nancy Pelosi, U.S. representative
- San Francisco Chamber of Commerce
- San Francisco Democratic Party
- San Francisco Labor Council
In Opposition
- San Francisco Republican Party