Measure S is Oceanside’s local sales tax measure on your November 3 ballot. It adds a half cent on the dollar, taking the rate from 8.25% to 8.75%, and raises about $20 million a year for critical Oceanside city services.
False“Residents foot the whole bill.”
TrueAn estimated 63% is paid by visitors and businesses (BW Research).
In 2018, the City contracted with the research firm BW Research, which estimated that 63% of the sales tax collected in Oceanside is paid by non-residents, tourists, and businesses, and 37% by residents.
False“It taxes everything you buy.”
TrueGroceries, prescriptions, and certain medical devices are exempt.
State law already exempts them from sales tax, and Measure S does not change that.
False“It’s a slush fund for the city.”
TrueIt comes with an annual independent audit and a citizens’ oversight committee.
Both are written into the ordinance. Measure S revenue will be tracked in its own sub-fund and independently audited every year. A citizens’ oversight committee will review the spending plan and the audit in public meetings and issue its own annual report.
False“It never ends.”
TrueEnds after 10 years.
The 10-year term is written into the measure and printed in the ballot question. Keeping it any longer would take a new vote of Oceanside voters.
False“Sacramento can take the money.”
TrueThe state cannot divert Measure S revenue.
Measure S is a local tax. Its revenue is dedicated to Oceanside, and other agencies cannot divert it either.
False“It’s a huge tax hike.”
TrueA half cent on the dollar: 5 cents on a $10 purchase.
The rate goes from 8.25% to 8.75%, the same rate shoppers already pay in Chula Vista, Escondido, San Marcos, and five other San Diego County cities.
Here is what is still on the city’s list.
Every active registered voter in Oceanside gets a ballot by mail.
Facts on this page come from the City of Oceanside’s June 24, 2026 staff report on Measure S (File #26-1544) and the BW Research analysis it cites. Voting information is from the San Diego County Registrar of Voters. Read the city’s Measure S materials.