San Diego Association of Governments: San Diego County Regional Transportation Commission: transactions and use tax: expenditure plan.
Impact
If passed, AB 3248 would impose a mandate on SANDAG to hold public meetings in multiple regions of the county before any proposed change to the revenue allocation can be put to a vote. It seeks to engage the electorate more thoroughly in financial matters that directly influence transportation infrastructure funding. This legislative measure reinforces a compliance protocol to ensure that SANDAG’s proposed changes can only be adopted with a clear majority of support from voters, thereby enhancing public accountability.
Summary
Assembly Bill 3248, introduced by Assembly Member Waldron, amends the Public Utilities Code to detail the compliance requirements for changes in the revenue allocation within the San Diego County Regional Transportation Commission's TransNet Extension Ordinance. This bill aims to provide a structured approach towards altering the expenditure plan for a retail transactions and use tax established within San Diego County. Specifically, it restricts the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) board from making adjustments to the allocation of revenues without meeting specific conditions to ensure electoral participation and transparency.
Contention
The bill may face contention from stakeholders who believe it could limit the flexibility of SANDAG in responding to changing transportation needs in the region. Critics might argue that the mandatory public meetings and electoral approval for changes can slow down necessary adjustments to funding allocations required for immediate infrastructure projects. Additionally, the unspecified percentage limit for changes which requires the proposed resolution for adoption raises questions about the operational efficiency of the commission.