CLEARLAKE, Calif. – A town hall meeting will be held Wednesday, Oct. 2, to answer questions about the city of Clearlake’s Measure H, a sales tax proposal going on this fall's ballot.

The meeting will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Lake County Youth Center, 4750 Golf St.

Measure H is a proposal on the November ballot to implement a 1-percent use and transaction – or sales – tax in the city of Clearlake. At its Aug. 8 meeting, the Clearlake City Council approved placing it on the ballot.

If passed, Measure H is expected to provide approximately $1.4 million annually, with 75 percent to go toward roads and 25 percent to be used for code enforcement.

Due to severe funding constraints for the Clearlake Code Enforcement Department, there has been a dramatic decline in the upkeep of properties.

This has resulted in increased conditions that affect the public health, safety and welfare, as well as the enjoyment, use and value of private property, according to Measure H proponents.

Measure H does not solve the street condition problems in the city, but proponents suggest it is a big step in that direction. With more than 112 miles of roadway to maintain, additional funding is an absolute necessity to improve the city’s streets.

An annual plan will be developed during the city budget hearings each year to address and improve the overall condition of all city maintained streets. The budget hearings are open to the public with opportunities for public input.

Proponents say Measure H will have a minimal cost. Sales tax is not charged on everything. Rent, groceries, utilities, prescriptions, and most medical procedures are not taxable. This sales tax amounts to 1 cent for each $1 spent on taxable items only.

Code enforcement and better roads are not only necessary to increase property values but also the quality of life, the proponents said.

If you have questions or just want to know more about Measure H, attend the town hall meeting Oct. 2 or visit www.helpclearlake.com .