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In addition to the highly watched Presidential campaign, and the local offices discussed in this edition of the Observer, Carson voters are being asked to weigh in on a host of local and state ballot measures and other important contests. Here are a few worth taking note of:
Carson Measure K
Measure K is a local sales tax initiative referred to the ballot by the Carson City Council. It would add a 3/4 cent, or 0.75% sales and use tax in Carson. If approved, the total sales tax rate in Carson would be 10.25%.
L.A. County Supervisor
State Senator Holly Mitchel and L.A. City Councilman Herb Wesson are vying to become the next member on the L.A. County Board of Supervisors. The City of Carson receives many of its services, including public safety, from the County. CAT held a forum with the two candidates, seeking their views on issues facing Carson residents. You can watch the hour-long forum on CAT’s Facebook page and on our website at carsoncat.org/forum2020.
L.A. County Measure J
A measure affecting the L.A. County Budget, Measure J, would redirect more than $350 million annually to community programs. More than $100 million of this is expected to come out of the Sheriff’s Budget. Carson contracts with the L.A. County Sheriff and relies on a host of other County services including health.
Water Replenishment District (WRD) Board
WRD is the largest groundwater agency in the US, and serves more than 40 cities in LA County, including Carson. Former Carson Mayor Vera Robles Dewitt currently serves as President of the Board, and is running for re-election against Juan Garza, the Mayor of Bellflower, Martha Camacho-Rodriguez, a Director at the Central Basin Municipal Water District, and Justin Blakely, a Water Conservation Advisor.
12 Statewide Propositions
There are a dozen statewide ballot measures to be voted on this cycle. The issues include affirmative action, voting rights for 17 year-olds and convicted felons on parole, rent control, app-based drivers as independent contractors, dialysis clinics, and cash bail.
Proposition 15
Also known as the “Split Roll” Initiative, Prop. 15 would eliminate property tax protections for businesses under the landmark 1978 Prop. 13 initiative. This would have significant effect on businesses in Carson, including small businesses who rent their space.
State & Federal Representatives
Congresswoman Nanette Barragan (D-44) is being challenged by teacher and disability advocate Analilia Joya (D). State Senator Steven Bradford (D-35) is being challenged by substitute teacher Anthony Perry (AI). And Assemblyman Mike Gipson (D-64) is being challenged by public school teacher Fatima S. Iqbal-Zubair (D).
Information on these and many other ballot issues can be found on CAT’s website at