Napa, CA — Starting April 1, the city of Napa will begin collecting revenue from the 1-cent sales tax approved by voters in November 2024. With the first funds set to become available, city officials are moving quickly to allocate resources toward important community improvements. At a City Council meeting on March 18, significant mid-year budget adjustments were approved to direct approximately $5 million of Measure G’s first-quarter revenue toward several key projects.
The initiatives align with the priorities expressed by Napa residents, addressing critical infrastructure needs and enhancing local amenities. Among the approved projects is a $3.3 million allocation for the Westwood Neighborhood Rehabilitation. This funding will support the design and construction of street improvements, including new curbs, gutters, and sidewalks, aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety in the area.
Another priority for the city is park renovations. A $1.2 million investment will fund major upgrades to parks identified in the 2023 Parks Condition Assessment. Sites such as Esther Deaver Park, Solomon Park, and Monarch Park will see improvements aimed at revitalizing aging facilities and enhancing recreational opportunities for the community. In addition, $500,000 has been earmarked for the installation of shade structures in community spaces, addressing a popular request from the 2024 Community Survey.
These early investments demonstrate the city’s commitment to delivering on the promises made to voters when Measure G was passed. City officials emphasized that the funding would be used to address immediate needs and make lasting improvements in the community.
Looking ahead, the city is also exploring the potential purchase of the Harvest Middle School property from the Napa Valley Unified School District. The property, which includes a swimming pool, athletic facilities, and a gymnasium, could be transformed into a valuable resource for the city’s park and recreation system. Officials have noted that the acquisition, which could be funded by Measure G revenue, may also help address the city’s growing need for affordable housing and public space.
In addition to these investments, the city has begun accepting applications for the Measure G Citizens Oversight Committee, a five-member group tasked with ensuring the responsible use of the sales tax revenue. The committee will include individuals with expertise in accounting, finance, municipal operations, and capital project delivery. Their role will be to review expenditures and ensure that the funds are spent in alignment with community priorities. Members will serve two-year terms and will provide annual reports and audits of Measure G’s financial activities.
City Manager Steve Potter emphasized the importance of public oversight, stating, “The Oversight Committee will provide an extra layer of accountability, ensuring that every dollar of Measure G funding is spent wisely and in alignment with community priorities.”
As Napa embarks on this new chapter, officials are hopeful that the investments made through Measure G will not only improve the city’s infrastructure but also help build a stronger, more vibrant Napa for all its residents.