In a significant development for San Diego, a Superior Court judge has ruled that Measure C—the hotel tax initiative approved by more than 65 percent of voters in 2020—was indeed a citizens-led initiative. This determination means the measure required only a simple majority, or 50 percent, to pass, rather than the previously believed two-thirds majority.
Measure C was designed to fund the expansion of San Diego Convention Center, address homelessness, and support street repairs. Although it received strong voter support, the measure fell short of the two-thirds threshold at the time, leading to years of litigation.
San Diego city attorney Mara Elliott criticized the lengthy legal battles, stating, “After nearly four years of frivolous litigation, the only thing plaintiffs have achieved is to delay the implementation of Measure C and the collection of hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue.” She emphasized these funds could have addressed pressing city issues.
Matthew Slentz, attorney for the Yes for a Better San Diego Committee, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, stating, “We are intent on seeing the will of the voters put into action.”
San Diego Convention Center also welcomed the ruling, noting a growing demand for event space and the potential for increased economic activity. Legal expert Dan Eaton has indicated an appeal is still anticipated from opponents of the measure, stating, “This is the latest word in the battle over Measure C. It will not be the last word.”
