What is Measure L?
Before understanding Measure L it is important to understand the meaning and purpose of the newly-formed Countywide Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). The plan is based on fire science and was formulated by the Napa Community Firewise Foundation (NCFF) to help Agencies, Fire Safe Councils, communities, and local homeowners define, plan and prioritize actions to limit damage from the inevitability of wildland fire.
Napa County is working with NCFF to find additional revenue resources to help fund the work determined necessary to minimize future wildfire damage here in the Valley and throughout the County and Measure L is the result of their research and findings.
Reducing wildfire risk is critical no matter where you live. Wildfires don’t just damage properties, the negative effects of wildfires are far-reaching and long-lasting.
- Wildfires cause economic loss due to business closures, lost wages, and housing dislocation.
- Wildfires can erode water quality and threaten drinking water supplies.
- Wildfires create severe health impacts due to toxic smoke, especially for children andseniors, and others with compromised health.Measure L is one important part of a series of strategies to help fund and launch the CWPP. The plan is comprehensive and customized to our community but needs funding so our community can experience the full benefit of the plan.
Measure L will provide steady funding to protect our community, and since it’s a sales tax, both residents and visitors will share in its cost through a 1⁄4 cent sales tax increase (which equates to 25 cents for every $100 spent). The sales tax does not apply to essential needs of working families like housing, healthcare and groceries.
Measure L will require citizen oversight, independent annual audits, and all revenue stays local. Developing a local source of funding, through Measure L, will also create opportunities to pursue matching grants, state and federal funding, and may help reduce insurance costs by illustrating that our community is investing in our own community fire safety.
Measure L is supported by local fire chiefs and grassroots fire councils, small business owners, environmental advocates, local community leaders, local mayors and council members, and healthcare providers. See complete list here.
Ballots will be mailed on May 9 and the election is June 7. We encourage you to learn more about Measure L so that you can make an informed choice on this important measure.
The Napa Chamber Board of Directors voted to support Measure L following a recommendation from our Government Affairs and Policies Committee; the GAP Committee monitors and responds to local issues and polices that affect the business community. GAP heard from those in support and those opposed to Measure L before recommending to the Board of Directors that this is a significant community issue deserving of our support. NCC is providing members with information and awareness on Measure L to help inform your decision, and your vote, on this important issue for the residents of Napa County.