Preliminary election results early Tuesday night showed decent support for Measure R, Merced County’s public safety sales tax measure, but it had not received enough votes to definitively pass.
After updated results were posted at 10 p.m., the sales tax measure received 57.9% approval, with more than 15,000 “yes” votes, compared to 42% “no” votes. Measure R needs two-thirds, or about 66%, voter approval to pass.
The ballot measure was a last-minute attempt by top county officials and law enforcement leaders to raise money for the county’s sheriff and fire departments, as well as the district attorney’s office. County supervisors and law enforcement officials hope to avoid closing two fire stations and to boost ranks in the sheriff’s department and district attorney’s office if the sales tax passes.
The sales tax is estimated to generate $25 million annually for 30 years – if it passes.
It may take time to tally final results for Measure R as Merced County likely saw record voter turnout Tuesday. Merced County Registrar of Voters Melvin Levey said many first-time voters showed up in droves to vote centers, waiting in line for hours to cast ballots.
Sheriff Vern Warnke said he was encouraged the ballot measure had a good lead before 9 p.m. He’s hopeful outstanding votes will push the sales tax over the two-thirds threshold.
The first time he was elected, the first results posted after 8 p.m. showed him in third place. As votes from more rural areas of the county were counted, he gained momentum.
“I’m hoping that plays a part here,” he said. “This will play a real crucial part in whether Merced County comes back to No. 1 again for homicides.”
While he understands the frustration with new taxes, Warnke said he’s still down around 25 deputies, putting staffing levels at about 25%.
District Attorney Nicole Silveira also said she was glad to see an initial strong showing of support.
“I’m glad Measure R raised a discussion on the needs of public safety and the needs of Merced County,” she said.
Meanwhile, a similar sales tax ballot measure for Livingston had strong support Tuesday night, with 70% approval as of 10 p.m. Measure L is a 1% sales tax measure to benefit police and fire. It requires two-thirds approval as well.
Measure L also came to fruition as a result of Merced County’s plan to close the county-operated fire station in the city.