City Measures
Measure I
On November 5, 2024 the community of Pinole voted to approve Measure I.
Measure I established a voter-approved, ½ cent Pinole sales tax designed to improve the City’s long-term fiscal sustainability. Once fully established, the City has predicted that Measure I will generate approximately $2.5 Million dollars annually. This funding is dependent on sales tax revenue and varies year to year. All funds generated by Measure I will go towards the General Fund and will be spent on maintaining core City services such as 911 public safety response and maintaining local streets and roads. Further, the City itself controls all funds raised — by law, the State cannot take Measure I funding.
The collection of Measure I funds will begin in April 2025 and the City will begin receiving those funds in July 2025.
This locally controlled funding that Measure I provided will help address Pinole’s annual deficit, which is projected to be at least $1.6 Million in the next fiscal year alone.
All Measure I funding is subject to the City’s responsible fiscal accountability practices, including public transparency on how taxpayer funds are spent. This includes online budget and expenditure reports and annual independent audits available for public review.
Community Priorities
BUDGET PLANNING WITH MEASURE I
We are already in the process of planning how to use Measure I funds to address important priorities in our community. These funds will help us maintain services in areas such as public safety and park maintenance—some of the key areas that our residents have already identified as priorities.
If sales tax does well, the City hopes to have up to approximately $500,000 for additional projects in the coming years starting in 2026. We would like to begin identifying community priorities so that we can work this into our budget planning process. While the final costs may vary, we’ve already outlined general estimates. We are also continuing to look into grant funding and other funding sources to help support projects. After careful planning, a budget containing a list of proposed projects is presented to Pinole City Council for final approval.
SPECIAL PROJECTS
Maintaining the services our community relies on remains a priority. If additional Measure I funds become available for special projects, we want to ensure we are focusing our resources on the projects that matter most to you. Your input is vital as we continue to plan and prioritize in the best interests of the whole community.
“While the City does not have the resources to complete every special project idea, it is important that we know which projects matter most to residents so that we can incorporate key projects into our budget planning.”
~ Kelcey, Young, City Manager
SHARE YOUR VOICE!
The City has come up with a list of potential projects that may be attainable in the next 3 years and would make a big impact in Pinole. Please take the survey to tell us which projects you prefer to see completed while keeping an annual budget of $400,000-500,000 in mind (starting in 2026). Please note that available Measure I funds are dependent on the amount of sales tax revenue and other factors.
In person, please join us for a Measure I Workshop on Saturday March 1st at 9am at the Senior Center to share your voice!
Please note that the projects below are NOT planned projects. They are potential Measure I projects for the purpose of budget planning.
Pinole Road Repair & Repaving Program ($400,000, annually)
The City of Pinole has approximately $60 Million worth of road repair projects based on the most recent pavement study. This program would establish a long-term road repair and repaving plan, leveraging Measure I funds alongside potential federal and state funding to maximize impact. By utilizing economies of scale and debt financing, the City could invest approximately $12–16 million to repave the most deteriorated roads over several years. The program would rely on securing external funding sources in conjunction with $400,000 in annual Measure I funds to make large-scale repairs feasible. If additional funding is secured, this approach could address approximately one-quarter of Pinole’s most-needed road repairs in the next few years, enhancing safety and reducing long-term maintenance costs.
Neighborhood Traffic Safety Program ($300,000, annually)
This program would enhance traffic safety in Pinole through increased enforcement, education, and community engagement. Funding could support an additional traffic officer and increased patrols in high-impact areas, along with traffic safety improvements such as painted crosswalks, stop signs, and other measures in key locations. The program would also include public outreach efforts and a volunteer-based component, such as a neighborhood crossing guard program. With an annual budget of $300,000, this program aims to create safer streets for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers while fostering community involvement in traffic safety initiatives.
Pool Program Expansion & Renovation ($300,000, one-time)
Fixing the failing equipment at the swim center presents an important opportunity to improve the facility’s functionality and enhance the overall experience for visitors. By addressing issues with outdated or broken equipment, we can ensure a safe, efficient environment for swimmers of all ages and skill levels. Additionally, with the equipment restored to working condition, the center will be able to expand its program offerings and accommodate more participants. This opens the door to extending hours of operation, allowing for increased access to swimming lessons, fitness classes, lap swimming, and recreational activities. Expanding hours would make the center more accessible to a broader range of community members, from early risers to those with busy schedules. with a one-time cost of $300,000, these improvements would not only enhance the facility’s services but also promote a healthier, more active community.
Caretaker’s House Revitalization & Playground Upgrade ($200,000, one-time)
Revitalizing dilapidated playgrounds and the Caretakers’ House presents an incredible opportunity to breathe new life into underutilized spaces while offering valuable resources to the community. $200,000 is a one-time cost estimated to fund the first phase of renovating the Caretaker’s House and surrounding park areas. Through thoughtful renovations, we can transform these areas into safe, engaging environments for children and families, with updated play equipment and accessible facilities. Once the Caretakers’ house is renovated, could be repurposed to host community programs, such as enrichment activities, art classes, and workshops that foster creativity, learning, and connection. Additionally, offering rentals for events such as birthday parties, picnics, or family gatherings can provide a much-needed venue for public enjoyment. By prioritizing inclusivity and sustainable design, these renovations can create a vibrant hub that not only preserves the historical charm of the space but also serves as a community asset for years to come (the Caretaker’s House is subject to grant restrictions and must be used for recreational purposes only).
Park Revitalization ($150,000, one-time)
Rehabilitating a park presents a wonderful opportunity to transform an area into a vibrant, multi-purpose space that serves the entire community. Some park revitalization possibilities include modern playgrounds, sports fields, and various amenities that can create a welcoming environment for people of all ages and interests. Parks can become a hub for recreational activities, offering safe play areas for children, fields for soccer, baseball, and other sports, as well as walking paths and picnic spots for families and individuals to enjoy. Adding amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and shaded pavilions will enhance comfort and accessibility, would make any park an inviting destination for relaxation and social gatherings. With thoughtful planning and attention to community needs, we can create a space where people come together, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors in a beautifully restored setting. When you take the survey, please tell us which park you want to see revitalized in the Suggestions/Comments section.
Downtown Vibrancy Initiative ($100,000, one-time)
Coordinating new downtown events for the community presents an excellent opportunity to not only bring people together but also support and promote local businesses. By hosting events such as night markets, pop-up shops, food festivals, and art walks, we create a platform where local vendors, artists, and entrepreneurs can showcase their products and services to a larger audience. These events drive foot traffic to downtown areas, boosting sales and enhancing the visibility of small businesses that might otherwise struggle to attract attention. Moreover, the collaboration between event organizers and local establishments helps build stronger community ties, ensuring that the events reflect the unique culture of the area while benefiting the local economy. Through thoughtful planning and a focus on supporting these businesses, we can create memorable experiences that foster growth and solidarity within the community. A one-time cost of $100,000 would serve as foundational funding to spur economic growth through a downtown vibrancy initiative and would have potential to be matched by other sponsorships.
Clear Pipes & Clean Water: Sewer Lateral Grant Program ($100,000, annually)
This program would provide matching grants to help property owners in Pinole replace aging or damaged private sewer laterals, which are a significant source of inflow and infiltration (I&I) into the sewer system. I&I occurs when rainwater or groundwater enters the system through cracks or outdated pipes, increasing wastewater treatment costs and the risk of overflows into streets, creeks, and waterways. Property owners are responsible for maintaining their sewer laterals, which run from their building to the City’s main sewer line. With an annual budget of $100,000, the program would accept applications on a rolling basis, offering financial support to reduce I&I, improve the sewer system, and protect the environment.
Sidewalk Repair Grant Program ($100,000, annually)
This program would assist homeowners in Pinole with the cost of repairing damaged sidewalks and curbs adjacent to their properties, enhancing pedestrian safety and neighborhood appearance. Property owners are responsible for sidewalk repairs under State Law and the City Municipal Code. The program would provide matching grants to eligible homeowners to address dangerous conditions, with applications accepted on a rolling basis as funds allow. An annual budget of $100,000 would support these grants and promote safe, walkable streets citywide.
Park Pathway Improvement Program ($100,000, annually for 5 years)
This five-year program aims to improve the accessibility and condition of pathways in Pinole’s parks and other City-owned trails and open spaces, prioritizing those most in need of repairs. By addressing uneven surfaces and other accessibility barriers, the program would enhance the experience for youth, seniors, families, business patrons, and all who visit or live in Pinole. With an annual budget of $100,000 for five years, the program would ensure safer, more enjoyable pathways that benefit the entire community. Feedback from residents would help identify priority areas and guide improvements.
Pinole Citizen’s Academy ($50,000, one-time)
A Pinole Citizen’s Academy would be established to educate and engage residents in City operations, services, and volunteer opportunities. Through interactive sessions with City leaders, participants would gain behind-the-scenes insights into local government, covering topics such as youth services, emergency management, neighborhood preservation, and event support. The program would also serve as a pathway for greater civic involvement, helping residents prepare for roles in community boards, commissions, and volunteer initiatives. With a one-time cost of $50,000, this program would foster stronger community connections, empower residents with knowledge, and encourage active participation in shaping Pinole’s future.
Free Transit for Pinole Youth Pilot Program ($30,000, annually)
This program proposes a pilot to provide free public transit access for students, foster youth, and unhoused youth in Pinole, enabling them to travel within the region via WestCAT buses at no cost. The goal is to reduce barriers to education, employment, and essential services for young residents while promoting sustainable transportation. Funding would support an ongoing annual cost of $30,000, which covers transit fares for eligible participants. Community input would help shape the program, including determining eligibility criteria, outreach strategies, and evaluation measures to assess its impact.
Bicycle Repair Stations & Support Program ($20,000, annually)
This program aims to enhance bicycling infrastructure in Pinole by installing bike repair stations along the Pinole Creek path and other key locations. These stations would provide tools and resources for cyclists to perform basic repairs and maintenance on the go. Additionally, the program would explore partnerships with local bike shops to offer quarterly bicycle repair support at a central location or along the bike path. The program would have an ongoing annual cost of $20,000, supporting both the installation and upkeep of repair stations and facilitating repair events. Community input would guide the placement of stations and the structure of repair services to maximize accessibility and benefit.