As California’s June 2 primary election approaches, voters in Contra Costa County will decide not only who could become the state’s next governor, but also three local measures tied to development and county funding that may directly affect East County residents.
California’s gubernatorial race remains crowded, with more than 60 candidates on the ballot, though recent polling has centered around a smaller group of major contenders. Democratic candidates Xavier Becerra, Tom Steyer and Katie Porter have emerged as leading Democratic figures, while Republicans Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco have also remained competitive in polling ahead of the state’s top two primaries.
Candidates have largely focused their campaigns on housing affordability, homelessness, energy costs and public safety, issues that continue to affect many California college students and working residents. Polling has shown affordability and the economy remain amongst voters’ top concerns entering the election.
Locally, Contra Costa County voters will also decide on Measure A, which would extend the county’s Urban Limit Line through 2051. The measure would continue restrictions on urban expansion and maintain protections for agricultural land and open space areas throughout the county.
Supporters of Measure A argue the proposal would help preserve open space and prevent urban sprawl, while critics have argued that limiting expansion could further complicate housing development in a region already struggling with affordability.
Measure B asks voters whether the county should adopt a temporary 0.625% sales tax over the next five years to support county services. According to county estimates, the measure could generate roughly $150 million annually to fund programs including healthcare, food assistance and other general services amid concerns over reductions in federal funding.
Supporters say the measure would help stabilize local services during financial uncertainty, while opponents have raised concerns over increasing sales taxes during a period of high living costs.
Measure G would update classrooms for nursing, science, emergency response programs in the Contra Costa College District, including Los Medanos College. This measure would also meet earthquake, fire and accessibility codes as well as repairing outdated plumbing, electrical and ventilation systems. If passed, $920 million will be authorized in bonds at legal rates, levying approximately $10 per $100,000 of assessed valuation, which will generate $57 million.
Residents can register to vote, track ballots and view voter information through the California Secretary of State and Contra Costa County elections websites.
