Proposition 22 on the November 2 ballot “Prohibits the state from borrowing or taking funds used for transportation, redevelopment, or local government projects and services.” The League of California Cities supports the measure, and Glendale city council member Laura Friedman has promoted the initiative at local events.
Each political party has a conflict with this initiative: local elected officials support it because attempts to close state funding gaps have been a disaster for municipal budgets. State elected officials and organizations (like the California Teachers Association) oppose it because it could force painful spending cuts.
This California Budget Project analysis, which officially takes a neutral stance, still goes into detail on how the initiative will limit the state’s ability to shift funds (whether the funds are the state’s to shift isn’t specifically addressed). Subheads from analysis:
Proposition 22 Would Increase the Likelihood That Budget Shortfalls Would Be Closed With Spending Cuts
Proposition 22 Would Make It More Difficult for the State To Manage Its Cash Flow
Proposition 22 Could Jeapardize the $2.1 Billion Fund Shift From Redevelopment Agencies
Proposition 22 Would Lock In the State’s Annual Subsidy for Redevelopment
Proposition 22 Would Make It More Difficult for the State To “Realign” Program Responsibilities to Local Governments
Proposition 22 Would Lock In Spending Priorities for Transportation Funds
Local League of Women Voters members have appeared several times to review and answer questions about the ballot initiatives; one of the last events is scheduled for Wednesday, 6:30 pm, at the Elks Lodge, 120 E. Colorado St., Glendale, during an American Business Women’s Association meeting. League of Women Voters of Glendale/Burbank speakers will be Joan Hardie, Mary L. Dickson, and Renee Leask. Cost $20; information (818) 331-0862.
Also on Wednesday night, 7 pm, the League will host a candidates’ forum at Burbank City Hall, 275 E. Olive Ave, featuring candidates for the 43rd state assembly district seat and the 29th U.S. congressional district seat.