Election 2004: Big win for transportation tax Election 2004: Big win for transportation tax (November 10, 2004)

San Mateo County voters spoke loud and clear: They are willing to keep paying a half-cent sales tax for another 25 years to help reduce traffic congestion. Measure A passed easily with a surprising 75 percent of the vote, 162,117 in favor to 52,674 opposed.

Over its 25-year span, the new Measure A will pump $1.5 billion into Peninsula highway, rail, street, bicycle, shuttle, grade-crossing, and other projects that help people get around. Local money may attract another $2 billion or more in state and federal funds.

Supervisor Mike Nevin praised the broad coalition that produced the resounding success. "The public trusted us, and now the money will get things done," he said.

The county was not so successful in finding a politically acceptable way for the supervisors to raise their salaries. Measure E, which would have let the Grand Jury recommend a suitable salary, went down to defeat, 99,196 to 90,974.

The county's five supervisors make just under $80,000 a year to manage an agency with a $1.3 budget. Most counties link supervisors' salaries to that of judges, said Mr. Nevin, who won't be affected; he leaves the board next month.

Propositions B, C and D passed easily with no opposition. They are housekeeping changes to the county charter.

Measure Q

Voters in the Almanac circulation area had no say in another measure that could have had a major effect on traffic, housing and development along the Bayfront.

In defeating Measure Q by 13,045 to 11,017, Redwood City voters killed a proposal to build a "waterfront village" on the edge of the Bay at Pete's Harbor and the former Peninsula Marina. Marina Shores could have had up to 1,930 housing units in some 17 towers up to 240 feet high, along with commercial and office development, and a hotel.

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