A sales tax increase in La Mesa was the most popular measure to go before voters in San Diego County on Nov. 5, capturing more than 80% of ballots.
With about 1.5 million votes counted and 20,000 left to go Thursday, Measure L had support of over 81% of voters, capturing 23,000 votes in its favors with just 5,000 votes in opposition.
Measure L will extend by 20 years a ¾-cent sales tax approved by voters in 2008. The tax has been in place since 2009 and raises $12 million annually for the city.
The city’s sales tax now will remain at 8.5%, with money going toward public safety, parks, recreational services, street maintenance and other services.
In a race for two open City Council seats, San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce policy adviser Lauren Cazares and attorney Genevieve Suzuki have captured the most votes over two other contenders. In a field of four candidates, Cazares had captured 32% of votes and Suzuki 30%.
C Development Vice President and former La Mesa City Councilmember Kristine Alessio was not far behind in third place with 29% of the votes, or about 750 votes behind Suzuki.
Personal trainer Shawn Townsend was a distant fourth with 8% of the votes.
The two seats will be vacant because Councilmember Jack Shu is not seeking re-election and Councilmember Colin Parent is running for state Assembly.
Cities throughout the county asked voters to consider 17 tax measures, including two within the city of San Diego. Twelve of the 17 passed, but none with as strong a margin as in La Mesa.
Chula Vista, Del Mar, Lemon Grove and San Diego also had measures that passed with more than 70% support.
La Mesa receives 1 percent from the overall state sales tax, and Proposition L would increase the city’s share to 1 ¾ percent. The ¾-cent tax itself adds 7.5 cents to a $10 purchase.
