At its annual Measure M public hearing on June 11, the Taxpayer Oversight Committee (TOC) unanimously found that OCTA is proceeding in accordance with the Measure M ordinance first approved by voters in 1990 and renewed by 70 percent of voters in 2006.
The independent 11-member committee was formed to monitor OCTA’s use of Measure M funding, approve all changes to the Measure M investment plan, and hold annual public hearings on the expenditure of funds generated by the sales-tax measure.
“The taxpayers of Orange County entrust that OCTA will administer Measure M funds wisely, and the Taxpayer Oversight Committee plays a vital role in ensuring promises made are being kept,” said OCTA Chairman Tim Shaw. “I’m extremely proud of the fact that the committee has determined for 28 straight years that OCTA is keeping its promises.”
Approved in 1990, the original Measure M made possible more than $4 billion worth of transportation improvements to help Orange County residents, workers and visitors travel more efficiently throughout all parts of the county. Hundreds of local projects improved freeways, widened streets, synchronized traffic signals and enhanced intersections. Measure M also made possible Metrolink commuter-rail service in Orange County.
Approved in 2006, the renewed Measure M, also known as OC Go, is expected to generate more than $13 billion to fund transportation improvements through 2041. Measure M dollars will be allocated 43 percent to freeways, 32 percent to streets and road, and 25 percent to transit.
The freeway program also includes funding for an environmental program that preserves and restores natural habitat and improves water quality.
For more information about Measure M or the Taxpayer Oversight Committee, visit here.