Encinitas Residents to Consider Tax for Beach Sand Replenishment

The Encinitas City Council has decided to place a measure on the November 2008 ballot which would require short term vacation renters to pay a 2% Transient Occupancy Tax designated for beach sand replenishment and stabilization projects. A similar proposition (Proposition G) was rejected on June 3, 2008 even though 65% of voters supported the measure (a 2/3 vote was required). Councilmembers Houlihan and Barth opposed the motion to place the measure on the ballot on the grounds that (a) Proposition G was rejected by the voters and (b) they believe additional time is needed to garner support for this new measure. However, Major Stocks and Councilmembers Gallagher and Bond supported the motion. A citizens committee was formed, which includes Mayor Stocks, Councilmember Galagher, Steve Aceti, and the Chairman of the Parks Commitee.