Berkeley · Tax measure · Nov 3, 2026
Measure Z: Public bank parcel tax initiative
Measure Z 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 capitalize and support a public bank to fund investments in affordable housing, green energy/infrastructure and small businesses, at rates of $0.06/square foot of residential improvements and $0.09/square foot of non-residential improvements, estimated to generate approximately $9,200,000 the first year and $58,300,000 over its six-year duration, with funds subject to review, allocation and approval by the City Council and regular audits, be adopted?”A YES vote means
This measure would levy a special parcel tax to fund a public bank.
A NO vote means
A NO vote would not adopt the special parcel tax to fund a public bank.
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 $0.06 per square foot of improvements for all residential property and $0.09 per square foot of improvements for all non-residential property.
The City estimates the tax would raise approximately $9,200,000 in the first year, and $58,300,000 over its six-year duration.
At least every three years, the City Auditor would audit all expenditures and the progress made toward achieving the parcel tax's purposes to confirm that expenditures and reports are accurate and consistent with the intent of the ordinance.
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 Public bank parcel tax initiative?
Opinions from people who signed in. Not a poll, not a vote, and not our endorsement. We don't check where anyone lives. Your name is never shown.
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 Y: Arts parcel tax initiative
- Measure AA: Sugar-sweetened beverage special tax initiative
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- See my ballot plan
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