San Rafael · Tax measure · Nov 3, 2026
Measure W: San Rafael Essential Services Protection Measure: real property transfer tax increase
Measure W is on the Nov 3, 2026 ballot in San Rafael. 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
“San Rafael Essential Services Protection Measure. To provide locally controlled funding for essential city services, such as fire protection, paramedics, rapid 9-1-1 emergency response times; preventing street/road deterioration; addressing impacts of homelessness/litter/illegal dumping; and other services, shall the City of San Rafael’s measure be adopted increasing the current real property transfer tax rate from 0.2% to 1% (only paid upon sale), generating approximately $7,500,000 annually until ended by voters, with annual audits and public spending disclosure?”A NO vote means
A NO vote rejects the measure. The current rate would remain in effect.
What it takes to pass
Votes required to pass: simple majority.
The money
The current tax rate is .2% ($2.00 for each one thousand dollars or fractional part of one thousand dollars of the value of the consideration), and it generates approximately $1.5 million annually.
The City estimates that approval of the measure would generate an additional estimated $6.0 million annually, and when added to the revenue generated by the existing tax, for a total of $7.5 million annually.
The measure would remain in effect unless and until the voters decide to change it.
San Rafael’s Voter-Approved Tax Oversight Committee would review the collection and expenditure of the revenues derived from this proposed measure, if passed.
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 rising 9-1-1 calls, the SAFE Team's temporary funding, a $4,000,000 annual street maintenance shortfall and aging storm drains need funding. Says a 0.8% increase is paid only when property changes ownership and that audits and oversight are required.
Signed by Kate Colin, City of San Rafael Mayor; Jon Haveman, Member, Voter Approved Tax Oversight Committee; Patricia Garbarino, Businessperson; Lawrence Andow, Member, San Rafael Board of Library Trustees; Mary Maurer, Neighborhood Association Leader
Argument in favor of Measure W (Marin County Registrar of Voters)
Argument against
Says the tax has no sunset, that San Rafael voters approved nine tax measures in about 20 years, and that the increase is 400% on people buying or selling homes. Says spending is unrestricted and the oversight committee lacks authority over spending.
Signed by Marin REALTORS®; The Coalition of Sensible Taxpayers; Michael Mackintosh, Housing Provider, San Rafael resident
Argument against Measure W (Marin County Registrar of Voters)
Read the official documents
Neighbor opinions
Where do you stand on San Rafael Essential Services Protection Measure: real property transfer tax increase?
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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