Measure D passes in Downey, increasing local sales tax for public safety

Former mayor Mario Guerra speaks at a Measure D town hall meeting last month. Voters approved Measure D on Tuesday, boosting funding for local public safety.

DOWNEY – Downey voters approved Measure D on Tuesday, securing a funding boost for public safety with a quarter-percent sales tax increase.

Unofficial results showed the measure passed with 16,675 yes votes (67.05%) to 8,193 no votes (32.95%). Although some ballots remain uncounted, Measure D’s lead appears insurmountable.

Measure D will increase Downey’s local sales tax by 0.25%, with the additional revenue dedicated primarily to police services. An independent oversight committee will monitor the funds to ensure they are used for their intended purpose.

The measure received broad support from local leaders and community members focused on enhancing public safety. Nader Moghaddam, chair of the Yes on Measure D committee, and Mario A. Guerra, the committee’s treasurer, expressed gratitude to Downey residents for their decisive support.

“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the residents of Downey for their overwhelming support of Measure D,” Moghaddam and Guerra said in a joint statement. “Your decisive vote reflects a collective commitment to enhancing public safety, and it will provide vital resources for our police and fire departments.”

The Yes on Measure D campaign was a grassroots effort led by police officers, firefighters, city and business leaders, and concerned residents. They conducted independent fundraising to communicate the measure’s importance to the community. The statement added that the measure’s passage by 67% represents “a supermajority and an overwhelming mandate” for public safety in Downey.

“In a time when many issues compete for attention, you prioritized the safety and well-being of our community,” the statement continued. “Your dedication to protecting our residents is commendable, and it is evident that you recognize the importance of a secure environment for all.”

The victory marks a significant step for the city, as the funds generated by the measure will directly support local law enforcement and emergency services, which city officials say will help keep Downey safe and thriving.