S
t. Helena's proposed property tax measures are headed towards defeat in the early election results, which would leave the city facing a $7 million structural budget deficit.

    The two ballot measures aim to raise around $4.8 million annually for the general fund by taxing property sales and transfers. Measure A1 seeks to enable St. Helena to become a charter city, allowing it to enact a real estate transfer tax. With 36% of potential votes counted, 48% are in favor of Measure A1.

    Measure A2 directly enacts the tax, with 44% of voters supporting it at this stage. If either measure fails to secure a simple majority, the tax will not be implemented. The proposed tax would apply when properties change hands, taxing a percentage of the sales price: 1.5% for sales between $1 million and $5 million, and 3% for sales over $5 million. Exemptions include sales under $1 million and transfers by will or inheritance.

    The city has been exploring ways to address its budget deficit in recent years.