Sierra Madre Main Square (Photo – Jean Subdury).
Voters in Sierra Madre will decide on Measure GL in the June 2 election. The measure would allow the city to increase its spending limit for the next four years so it can continue using all of its existing tax revenue for city services.
By Rena Kurlander
The measure was placed on the ballot unanimously by the Sierra Madre City Council.
What Is the Gann Limit?
California law requires cities to follow a spending cap called the “Gann Limit.” The limit controls how much tax revenue a city can spend each year. It is based on budget levels from the 1986–1987 fiscal year and adjusts annually for population growth and inflation.
City officials say the formula does not fully reflect modern economic growth or higher costs for services such as professional fire protection.
If a city collects more tax revenue than allowed under the limit, the extra money must be returned through lower taxes or fees.
Why Measure GL Was Proposed
According to city forecasts, Sierra Madre could exceed its current spending limit within the next four years. The city’s appropriations limit for the 2025–2026 fiscal year is set at about $14.6 million.
Measure GL would temporarily override the limit until June 2, 2030, allowing the city to spend all of its projected tax revenue on services including:
- Police
- Fire protection
- Emergency medical services
- Road maintenance and repairs
City officials emphasized that Measure GL would not create a new tax or increase tax rates.
Projected Revenue Growth
A city staff report projects revenues could grow at a 5.5% annual rate:
- 2026–2027: about $15 million
- 2027–2028: about $15.8 million
- 2028–2029: about $16.7 million
- 2029–2030: about $17.6 million
Officials say failing to approve the measure could affect the city’s ability to maintain current service levels.
How the Vote Works
Measure GL needs a simple majority vote — 50% plus one vote — to pass.
- A “Yes” vote would raise the city’s spending limit to reflect future growth.
- A “No” vote would keep the current spending limit rules in place under state law.
Colorado Boulevard Newspaper's recommendations: Vote YES on Sierra Madre's Measure GL.
Big no for me
Why? It’s not raising taxes, it just lets us spend the tax dollars we already collect. The Gann Limit in Sierra Madre was set in 1979 when we didn’t pay for our fire dept. It only increase for population growth and cost of living. So when we added the cost we all pay for our own fire dept we are now going to reach that Gann Limit. So imagine if it doesn’t pass. The money we all pay into taxes won’t go towards all of the services we want in town. We will have to return it instead of paying for what we as residents want, or reduce services to stay under the limit.