Berkeley · Tax measure · Nov 3, 2026
Measure Y: Arts parcel tax initiative
Measure Y is on the Nov 3, 2026 ballot in Berkeley. This page summarizes the official documents; every statement links to its source, and we take no position on how you should vote.
The question on your ballot
“Shall the measure creating a special parcel tax to fund grants for performing arts organizations, art projects, art organization operational and programmatic expenses and capital projects, community festivals, and administrative costs, with oversight by the City's Civic Arts Commission, at a rate of $0.07 per square foot of improvements, estimated to generate approximately $6,300,000 annually and $84,800,000 over its twelve-year duration, be adopted?”A YES vote means
This measure would impose a special parcel tax to fund arts institutions and programs through grants.
A NO vote means
A NO vote would not adopt the special parcel tax to fund arts institutions and programs through grants.
What it takes to pass
It requires a majority vote for passage.
The money
If adopted, the tax would be imposed starting January 1, 2027, at a rate of $0.07 per square foot of improvements on all properties, excluding certain properties.
The City estimates the tax would raise approximately $6,300,000 in the first year, and $84,800,000 over its 12-year duration.
The City's Civic Arts Commission would review and approve grant applications and adopt regulations to effectuate the purposes of the measure.
How it got on the ballot
This measure was placed on the ballot by an initiative petition signed by the requisite number of registered voters in the City of Berkeley.
Read the official documents
Neighbor opinions
Where do you stand on Arts parcel tax initiative?
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Keep going on your Berkeley ballot
- City Council, District 1: 5 candidates
- City Council, District 4: 2 candidates
- City Council, District 7: 2 candidates
- City Council, District 8: 4 candidates
- Measure U: General obligation bond for public infrastructure and facilities
- Measure V: Transactions and use (sales) general tax
- Measure W: Charter amendment on election and administrative provisions
- Measure X: Amendments to the Rent Stabilization Ordinance
- Measure Z: Public bank parcel tax initiative
- Measure AA: Sugar-sweetened beverage special tax initiative
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- See my ballot plan
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