Watsonville considers renewing half-cent sales tax

The city of Watsonville is considering a ballot measure to renew a half-cent sales tax, and it is holding town hall meetings to discuss it.

The ballot measure would be in the 2020 election, and police said the sales tax would:

Help maintain after-school and summer programs for youth Support anti-gang and youth violence prevention, the Police Activity League and parks and rec programs Maintain fire and paramedic emergency response times Continue police patrols in neighborhoods

The town hall meetings will happen at several times and locations, including:

Civic Plaza Community Room, Monday from 6 to 7 p.m. Rolling Hills Middle School, Tuesday from 6 to 7 p.m. EA Hall Middle School, Wednesday from 6 to 7 p.m. Watsonville First United Methodist Church, Thursday from 6 to 7 p.m.

Some of those speaking at the town halls include City Manager Matt Huffaker, Watsonville Police Chief David Honda, Watsonville Fire Chief Rudy Lopez Sr. and Parks and Community Services Director Nick Calubaquib. There will be translation services.

For more information, call 831-768-3010.