Politics
El Paso Community Services Funding Referendum Targets Local Health and Welfare Programs
The November ballot measure would raise sales tax revenue for expanded clinics, senior centers and youth services in El Paso neighborhoods.
How we reported this
El Paso voters will decide on a proposed sales tax increase dedicated to community services under a referendum placed on the November 3 ballot by the City Council. The measure would add one-quarter of one percent to the local sales tax rate and direct the proceeds to health clinics, after-school programs and senior support services operated by the city and county.
City officials placed the item on the ballot after reviewing service wait times that have grown since 2023. The referendum follows a 2025 budget shortfall that reduced hours at several neighborhood facilities in the Lower Valley and East Side districts.
Residents would see the change first at city-run health centers, where the added revenue is projected to cover extended operating hours and additional staff positions. Families in the 79907 and 79936 ZIP codes could gain access to new after-school slots at existing recreation centers, while seniors at the El Paso Senior Center on Copia Street would receive expanded transportation to medical appointments.
Revenue and service figures
The city's referendum filing, dated July 1, estimates the tax would generate 11.8 million dollars in its first full year based on 2025 taxable sales data. El Paso County recorded 865,000 residents in the most recent U.S. Census Bureau count, and current community service programs serve roughly 42,000 individuals annually according to the city's human services department report.
Ballot timeline
Early voting opens October 19. The measure requires a simple majority to pass and would take effect January 1, 2027 if approved. City staff will publish a final fiscal impact statement by September 15 that outlines exact allocations among the three service categories.