Stand with Us in Supporting Measure MM, a Critical Wildfire Prevention Zone Measure—Together, We Can Make a Difference on November 5th!
Protect Our Community from Wildfire Risks
Wildfires have long been a grave threat to our community, with the devastating 1991 firestorm that tore through the Oakland hills serving as a tragic reminder of the dangers we face. The memories of that fire continue to haunt residents and have driven the city to take serious action to ensure such a disaster never happens again.
Measure MM is critical in safeguarding our homes, families, and future from these dangers. By supporting this measure, we can ensure that our community is better prepared and protected against the devastating impact of wildfires.
The importance of wildfire awareness and proper vegetation management cannot be overstated, especially for Californians living in high-risk areas. With 7,127 wildfires reported by CalFire in 2023 alone, and over 1,500 already this year, the threat is real and ongoing. Oakland's Vegetation Management Plan is a crucial step in mitigating these dangers, but sufficient funding is essential to ensure its effective implementation.
Why Vote Yes on Measure MM?
Measure MM, a special tax for the 26,000 parcels within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, will provide the necessary resources to make this plan a reality. Property owners in this zone will be subject to an annual tax, starting at $99 per single-family home or $65 per apartment, with exemptions available for some low-income homeowners and seniors. The city of Oakland expects this tax to generate approximately $2.7 million in its first year, directly funding vital wildfire prevention efforts.
The revenue from this tax will be used to implement Oakland’s 10-year Vegetation Management Plan, which includes essential wildfire prevention efforts such as enhanced firefighter patrols, goat grazing, property inspections, homeowner education, and road clearing. These measures are vital to protecting our community from the ever-present threat of wildfires.
Why is it Important for You to Get Involved and Stand with Us?
For Measure MM to pass, it must receive approval from two-thirds of the voters in the affected area. In 2013, a similar measure fell short by just 60 votes. This shows how every single vote counts in making a difference.
By standing together and supporting Measure MM, we can take a significant step toward safeguarding our community from future wildfires. This is our opportunity to invest in a safer, stronger future for everyone. Your involvement is crucial in ensuring that we protect our homes, our families, and our community from the growing threat of wildfires. Let's make sure this time, we succeed.