City to Lose $184,000 in Vehicle License Fees, Say Officials

Glendora city officials are railing against an “11th hour” budget trailer bill that they contend has stripped the city of $184,000 in vehicle license fees earmarked for its General Fund.

Senate Bill 89, passed during late-night budget sessions, sends all motor vehicle license fee revenues of $130 million from cities to counties as funding for public safety activities that have been realigned to counties, according to the Sacramento Press. Gov. Jerry Brown approved the bill June 30, as part of a budget package aimed to close years of recession-driven shortfalls.

Glendora city officials say the city stands to lose $184,000 in its General Fund with the passage of the bill.

“What frustrates local government officials is that nothing apparently changes in Sacramento when it comes to them taking our local tax dollars to address their budget problems,” said City Manager Chris Jeffers, in the latest edition of the city’s Glendora Report. “The Governor said no more business as usual, then he signs a bill that clearly is prohibited by the Constitution and the will of the voters.”

The League of California Cities, which has filed a joint lawsuit against the state regarding bills severely restricting redevelopment agencies, was quick to oppose the legislation, sending a letter to the governor requesting a veto of the bill.

“This proposal, which was rushed through the process with little opportunity for public input or review, will result in the loss of vital city general fund monies that will be felt by every city in our state,” the letter read. “…This kind of reckless legislation and disregard for public input and transparency is an embarrassment to the state.”

Sen. Bob Huff, R-Diamond Bar, and Assemblyman Tim Donnelly, R-Twin Peaks, both vocally opposed the bill.