Milpitas · Tax measure · Nov 3, 2026
Measure K: Business tax update: gross receipts tax
Measure K is on the Nov 3, 2026 ballot in Milpitas. 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
“City of Milpitas Local Funding Measure. Shall an ordinance to update City of Milpitas's 50-year-old business tax be adopted, with no tax increase to residents, so small businesses pay less than larger businesses, with all paying an annual flat rate, plus 0.025% to 0.035% of gross receipts for larger businesses, providing approximately $3,000,000 annually for general city services such as maintaining fiscal stability, neighborhood safety /cleanliness; requiring public disclosure, all funds invested locally, until ended by voters?”Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters, List of Local Measures (Nov. 3, 2026)
A YES vote means
A yes vote adopts the new gross receipts business tax to replace the existing tax.
A NO vote means
A no vote rejects the new gross receipts business tax and keeps the existing tax.
What it takes to pass
The measure is a general-purpose tax and requires 50% + 1 voter approval to pass.
The money
Each business would pay a flat rate ranging from $25 to $400 based on its gross receipts tier. Businesses making more than $700,000 would also pay a rate ranging from 0.025% to 0.035% of the portion of their gross receipts in the top three tiers.
The ballot question states the tax would provide approximately $3,000,000 annually.
Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters, List of Local Measures (Nov. 3, 2026)
The ballot question states the tax would continue until ended by voters.
Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters, List of Local Measures (Nov. 3, 2026)
Proceeds would be deposited in the City's general fund, annually audited and publicly reported in the City's annual audit, and available for any lawful municipal purpose.
The official arguments
These are the arguments filed with the county for the official voter guide. They are written by their authors, not by the city or by us. We summarize what each says, not whether it is accurate.
Argument in favor
Says Measure K does not raise taxes for residents or homeowners, reforms a business tax structure over 50 years old so large businesses pay more than small ones, and keeps funds local with independent audits and public disclosure.
Signed by Mario Bena, Local 1699 President; Brian Thanh, MPOA - President; Steve Roberts, Small Business Owner; Martha C. Perez, Owner/President; Kimberly Paras, Small Business Owner
Primary Argument in Favor of Measure K (County Registrar of Voters)
Argument against
Says businesses pass taxes on to customers, employees, or shareholders, that the cost of living is already high, and that the tax could push business owners to relocate to other cities.
Signed by Elizabeth C. Brierly, Director, Silicon Valley Taxpayers Association
Primary Argument Against Measure K (County Registrar of Voters)
Read the official documents
Neighbor opinions
Where do you stand on Business tax update: gross receipts tax?
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.
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