Why is Measure G a “Forever” Tax? Measure G includes no sunset clause, meaning it remains in effect indefinitely if passed.

Supporters of Measure G have attempted to downplay this permanence, suggesting it could be easily overturned with a future vote. However, reversing this tax would require a citizen-driven ballot initiative, a difficult and complex process involving 8,000+ signatures, legal review, and an expensive election. This makes it anything but simple or affordable to repeal.

Outside Influence, not a Citizen-Led Effort: An examination of Measure G’s donor list shows that the majority of financial backing comes from large corporations, union leaders, and land developers, many of whom aren’t based in Folsom. This is not a grassroots, citizen-led initiative. The forces behind the G campaign used paid signature gatherers rather than relying on community members, spending over $27,000 on this effort. By contrast, a genuine citizen initiative to repeal the tax wouldn’t have the same financial resources, making the repeal an even tougher challenge.

Hello, I am Orrin Heatlie, a lifelong resident of Folsom, chairman of RebuildCalifornia.com, and the lead proponent for the largest-ever attempted petition drive in our nation’s history, the effort to recall Governor Gavin Newsom, a true grassroots, citizen-led initiative done by the people, for the people, and I can genuinely say this: Measure G is nothing of the sort. 

A $29 Million Annual Expense in Perpetuity. If Measure G passes, Folsom’s sales tax will increase from 7.75% to 8.75%, generating an estimated $29 million in annual revenue—for as long as the tax remains. This significant, ongoing expense comes when many of us tighten our budgets. The city recently reported a $6.8 million increase in revenue, with a balanced budget and even a surplus last year. Why rush into a permanent tax hike when the city’s finances are stable?

Who Stands to Benefit?: Supporters of Measure G have raised over $238,000 in contributions from outside developers, corporate expansionists, and special interests, compared to about $15,000 raised by the residents of Folsom, who oppose the tax hike. Why are these big players investing so heavily in Measure G? The answer is simple: they expect a sizable return on investment from the tax revenue, which will flow from Folsom residents to those with vested interests to grow the government spending power and expand our city.

Looking Ahead: New Leadership, New Perspectives. In a few short months, Folsom will have a new city manager and two new city council members. With this fresh leadership, we’ll have new ideas and perspectives that could offer alternative solutions to our city’s needs. It’s worth waiting to hear their ideas before making a decision that could lock us into a permanent tax hike.

As a lifelong Folsom resident, born and raised here, as were my children, and an active member of the RebuildCalifornia.com movement, I care deeply about the future of our city and am committed to ensuring a fair voice for all Folsom residents. I’ve spent 55 years in this community, seeing it grow and evolve, and I want to ensure it thrives for generations to come. That’s why I’m speaking out against Measure G. I urge fellow residents to vote with caution.

Let’s not rush into this. Let’s listen, evaluate, and decide carefully. Vote No on Measure G and consider a more innovative approach with new leadership for Folsom’s future.

If you have questions or would like to join the opposition, please contact me at FolsomGold@yahoo.com.

Orrin Heatlie, 55-year Folsom resident

The above commentary was authored by local resident Orrin Heatlie and submitted to Folsom Times. The views and opinions expressed in community commentary submissions are that of the authors and do not reflect the views and opinions of Folsom Times, its management, staff, stakeholders or advertisers.

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