On today’s episode, hosts Courtney and Greg are joined by producer Bart Sullivan for an important conversation about Benicia’s financial future and three local ballot measures that voters will decide in the upcoming November 3, 2026, election. Their special guest is Benicia Mayor Steve Young, who joins the Benicia Voice team to discuss Measures X, Y, and Z, what each measure proposes, why they are on the ballot, and how they could affect Benicia residents, businesses, and the community's future. The conversation explores three important proposals: Measure X – Business License Modernization: Would restructure Benicia’s business license tax, exempt smaller businesses with annual receipts of $100,000 or less, and establish new tax rates for other businesses, including marine terminal operations. Measure Y – Limited City Charter: Would establish a limited city charter while preserving Benicia’s existing council-manager form of government, allowing Measure Z to take effect if both measures are approved by voters. Measure Z – Real Property Transfer Tax: Would establish a tax on certain real estate transactions, including commercial properties, newly constructed homes, and higher-value property sales, while exempting existing homes sold for $2 million or less. Mayor Young discusses the city's financial challenges, the potential effects of the Valero refinery closure, the need for sustainable city revenues, and what these proposals could mean for maintaining essential services and planning for Benicia’s future. Whether you're a homeowner, business owner, or simply someone who cares about Benicia, these are important issues worth understanding before casting your ballot. It's another timely community conversation focused on helping residents stay informed, hear directly from local leadership, and make their own decisions about the future of the city. 🎧 Welcome to the Benicia Voice Podcast—where local issues, community voices, and informed conversations come together! For additional information, including official ballot language and impartial analyses, visit the City of Benicia's Election Information page.
