Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Measure D?
Measure D is a citizen-led voter initiative expected to be on the June 2, 2026 ballot. If passed by local voters, it would generate roughly $17 million a year to safeguard, restore, maintain and manage a growing network of protected open space, wildlife habitat, water resources, and agricultural lands in the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority’s (SCVOSA) jurisdiction.
Why is additional funding needed for the SCVOSA?
The amount of land the SCVOSA manages on behalf of the public in the Santa Clara Valley has more than doubled since 2014 to 30,000 acres. In addition, the cost of maintaining these lands has risen substantially. The SCVOSA provides the greater community with access to greenspace and protection against wildfires and flooding, and needs funding to ensure their lands are proactively managed.
How will funds from this measure be used?
Funds will go towards a variety of vital services provided by the SCVOSA, including:
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Reducing catastrophic wildfire risk by removing hazardous brush
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Protecting our drinking water sources, including rivers, creeks, and streams from pollution
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Addressing illegal activity and vandalism in natural open space areas
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Helping clean up pollution and litter in natural areas
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Protecting disappearing natural areas before they’re gone completely
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Protecting our area’s farms and healthy, local food sources
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Maintaining and restoring wildlife habitats and corridors
How can I be sure funds from this measure will be spent as promised?
The Measure D has strict fiscal accountability provisions, including:
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Annual audits of spending
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Independent taxpayer oversight to ensure all funds are spent locally and as promised
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A public expenditure plan that breaks down how the money will be used
Can the State or federal government take these funds away?
No, by law, every dollar would stay here in the SCVOSA District and could be used only for local priorities like continuing funding for wildfire prevention, protecting our water sources, and the preservation of open spaces. Neither the State nor the Federal government can divert or reallocate these funds.
How much will this measure cost property owners?
Measure D would establish an equity-based two-cent per square foot of building area per parcel tax, with a cap of $7,500 for large parcels. Because this is a tax per building square foot, the average homeowner in the SCVOSA District would only pay ~$32/year, with large companies paying significantly more. An optional exemption would also be available for senior residents.
Who qualifies for an exemption from the cost?
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Senior citizens 65 and over
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Those receiving Supplemental Security Income for a disability, regardless of age
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Those receiving Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, regardless of age, whose yearly income does not exceed 250 percent of the 2012 federal poverty guidelines (~28,000 for individuals and $58,000 for a family of four)
In 2024, the California Legislature enacted AB 2682, which limits the types of exemptions that may be included in parcel tax measures. The State statute does not allow any exemptions solely based on income.
How will residents apply for an exemption?
There will be an application on the SCVOSA website with instructions on how to apply for an exemption. Once you have submitted the application and it is verified, you do not have to re-apply each year.
Has the SCVOSA been good financial stewards of taxpayer money?
Over the past 10 years, the SCVOSA has been very responsible with its tax revenues from Measures Q (in 2014) and T (in 2020). The independent Expenditure Plan Oversight Committee has consistently confirmed that funds from these measures were spent as promised. To learn more, visit the SCVOSA Financials webpage at www.openspaceauthority.org/funding.
The SCVOSA has consistently been recognized by the CA Special District’s Association for excellence in its transparency and governance.
The SCVOSA has been able to effectively leverage its local tax funding of $12 million annually to bring in over $180 million of outside funding. Thus, for every $1 of local tax revenue they spend on projects, the SCVOSA has raised another $3 in outside funding through grants and partnerships.
Can I read the full text of the citizens’ initiative?
Yes, read here.
Is this effort led by the SCVOSA?
No, this is an entirely grassroots, citizen-led initiative. It is driven by local residents, required community signatures to qualify for the ballot, and is funded by community supporters — not a government agency.
Who is sponsoring this citizen’s initiative?
Peninsula Open Space Trust Action Fund [POST AF]. POST protects open natural space, so people and nature connect and thrive. These lands are preserved forever so present and future generations benefit. Learn more on their website: openspacetrust.org
Who are the official proponents of this citizen’s initiative?
Ken Yeager, POST Board Member; Shiloh Ballard, Santa Clara Valley Water District Board Director*; and Julie Makrai Hutcheson, Green Foothills Executive Director
*title for identification purposes only
What percentage of the vote will this measure need to pass?
Measure D will require 50% + 1 of the total votes cast to pass.
When will voters be able to vote on this measure?
The measure is expected to be on the June 2, 2026 ballot. All registered voters in the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority District will receive a ballot in the mail in early May or can vote in person. Cities within the SCVOSA District include San Jose, Santa Clara, Milpitas, Morgan Hill, Campbell, and part of Cupertino.
How can I learn more or get involved with the campaign?
The citizens’ initiative to pass Measure D is a community lead effort. To sign up for more information or volunteer, please email info@yesondforscv.com or fill out the form on the Home Page.
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Links to:
Ballot Question
Initiative
Primary Argument in-Favor / Rebuttal Argument to Primary Argument In-Favor
Primary Argument Against / Rebuttal Argument to Primary Argument Against