Escalon City Council members are reminding residents about the placement of Measure P, a one percent sales tax increase, on the November ballot. If approved by voters, the measure is expected to generate approximately $900,000 annually, providing funding for local city services.

Interim City Manager Jaylen French noted that the revenue from Measure P “is intended to strengthen the financial stability of the city and maintain the critical services” that Escalon residents depend on. The funds raised through the one percent tax increase would be used to support a range of services, including police patrols, crime prevention efforts, and the maintenance of safe and clean public spaces. Additionally, the measure aims to ensure the safety of school routes through enhanced police presence, as well as the upkeep of parks, facilities, roads, and other infrastructure.

Measure P is also about local control, noted officials. Unlike other taxes, all revenue generated from this measure will remain in Escalon, ensuring that none of it is taken either for San Joaquin County or state coffers. Currently, out of the $8.14 million in sales tax revenue generated in the city, only about $1.05 million is returned to Escalon for local use, said French, with the majority going to the State of California and San Joaquin County.

If approved, the new revenue would be reinvested directly into the community for services and infrastructure, such as support of the Police Department, maintaining parks, streets and neighborhoods, and enhancing programs for youth, seniors, and families.

For more information on Measure P, visit www.CityofEscalon.org/MeasureP