Sonoma County parks measure poised for win

Sonoma County voters put their support behind local parks on Tuesday, voting overwhelmingly in favor of a one-eighth cent sales tax that, for the first time in county history, would provide a dedicated funding stream for county regional parks and municipal parks.

With 551 of 551 precincts reporting Wednesday morning, Measure M was supported on 70 percent of the ballots tallied, on track to win the election and go into effect next year. It needed approval by two-thirds of those voting to pass.

“We’re thrilled,” said former Sonoma County Regional Parks Director Caryl Hart, who co-chaired the Yes on Measure M campaign. “It’s looking good.”

The countywide tax would increase the cost of taxable items by 3 cents for every $24 spent. It is projected to generate about $11.5 million annually for parks over its 10-year lifespan.

Two-thirds of the revenue, or almost $7.7 million annually, would be funneled into Sonoma County Regional Parks, including Helen Putnam and Tolay Lake. The remaining $3.8 million would be divided among the county’s cities, with Petaluma to receive $700,000 for city parks.