Measure A, the transportation sales tax for Sacramento County, failed in the November election. Yah! Measure A had a few things good about it, and many things bad.

STAR was opposed to the measure (see Measure A 2022 for the reasons why) and in fact was the first organization to declare opposition. The information provided by STAR, and Getting Around Sacramento, was the factual basis of most opposition efforts.

However, STAR wishes to acknowledge that the hard work of getting out the no vote was largely the effort of others. A group of individuals, some affiliated with organizations and some simply passionate citizens, came together under ‘Measure A Not OK‘, a campaign initiated by ClimatePlan, which is a statewide organization that focuses on climate change impacts in underrepresented communities. These volunteers tabled at events, created fliers, developed talking points, met with politicians and influencers, knocked on doors, raised funds (a tiny fraction of the funds raised by the proponents), worked with a wide variety of partners including many outside the traditional transportation advocacy world. And made it happen! Many people had given up, figuring that the very deep pocketed and politically influential proponents had already won. But, to quote Margaret Mead, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

What’s next? Everyone who worked to defeat Measure A, and many others, are talking about what’s next. A different geography, focusing on areas that support transit and active transportation? A funding mechanism other than sales tax? A measure that combines housing and transportation? We know that additional funding for transit is critical, especially for operations. STAR will be part of these discussions, ensuring that transit has a place at the table.

For a map of election results by precinct, see Measure A fails, and mapping.

• Measure A 2022