The City of Chula Vista is gearing up to form an Independent Advisory Committee charged with advising how Proposition A monies would be spent if the measure is approved by voters May 5. Those interested in serving on the committee can download an application online at www.chulavistaca.gov. Applications are due at the City Clerk’s office, May 15. Committee members must be Chula Vista residents or employees or owners of a Chula Vista business.

Next month, Chula Vista voters will have the opportunity to weigh in on Proposition A, a proposed 1% increase in the City’s sales tax that would be limited to ten years. If voters approve the measure, a 1% sales tax increase could deliver an estimated $20 million annually to support essential services and programs.

Prop A establishes an Independent Advisory Committee to track expenditures and make funding recommendations to the City Council. In the event of an economic recovery, the committee can also recommend eliminating the sales tax early.

In a March 20 memorandum describing the purpose and make-up of the committee, City Councilwoman Pamela Bensoussan outlined a “bottom up” community driven appointment process. Delegates will represent community groups and professional organizations and individuals will represent stakeholder groups (seniors, youth, education, health) throughout the city. Committee members should have some familiarity with city planning, infrastructure, financing and the budget process. One representative from each of the following city commissions will also serve on the Prop A Advisory Committee—Growth Management Oversight Commission (GMOC), Planning Commission and Resource Conservation

Commission. More than 20 people may serve on the committee; the City Council will be in charge of the final selection process.

All advisory committee meetings will be open to the public.   For details, read the Prop A information at  www.chulavistaca.gov . Download an application and scan/email a copy to PropAoversight@chulavistaca.gov or mail a printed copy to the Office of the City Clerk at 276 Fourth Avenue.