Frequently Asked Questions

What is Measure M?

Measure M will provide local funding to help purchase the Martha Property and protect open space, natural areas, wildlife habitat and water quality surrounding Tiburon and Belvedere. Additionally, Measure M will preserve Marin’s legacy of natural beauty on the Tiburon Peninsula, ensuring that our children, grandchildren and all future generations will have access to this beautiful land.
Why do we need Measure M?

For 50 years the Martha Property has been a source of contention in our community. Measure M would finally bring a close to that, protecting the property and our resources so that our children and grandchildren can enjoy the same quality of life that we do. Additionally, by protecting this land forever as parks and open space for all, we can ensure it is never developed. And, instead of more traffic, increased crowding and more people next door, we can preserve beautiful views and wildlife habitat for us all to enjoy.
What will Measure M do?

If approved by Tiburon and Belvedere voters, Measure M will: Reduce wildfire risk to our local communities Conserve open space surrounding Tiburon and Belvedere Protect wildlife habitat Protect the water quality of the estuary and the bay Prevent increased traffic congestion in our community
Who will manage the new property if Measure M passes?

The Marin County Open Space District, which currently manages the adjacent lands, has agreed to manage the new property which will provide access to the property for all Marin County residents and visitors.
How much will Measure M cost?

Measure M will cost only $139 more per year, with a modest annual escalator, from what homeowners are paying now. Measure M will help purchase the Martha Property – providing 110 acres of open space and protection of local natural resources – for generations to come. Property owners within the Community Facilities District (CFD) are currently paying $196 per year for two open space bonds passed in the 1990s to purchase Old St. Hilary's. One ends in 2024 and one ends in 2028. Measure M will pay off those two bonds and the current bonds will be replaced by an extended 30-year bond of $335/yr for an increase in property tax of $139 in year one. The new tax grows at 2%. The lifetime average increase over what property owners in the CFD are currently paying is $257.
What level of support does Measure M need to pass?

In order to pass, Measure M must receive two-thirds approval from those who cast a vote on the measure.
Who can vote on Measure M?

A Community Facilities District (CFD) has been created to include the City of Belvedere and residents who reside in the Town of Tiburon southeast of Trestle Glen Boulevard. All registered voters who live in the CFD will be eligible to vote on Measure M.
I have not received my ballot. How do I get another one?

Ballots were mailed on October 10, 2022, and should arrive in Marin County residents’ mailboxes by Friday, October 14, 2022. If you did not receive your ballot, you should call the Marin Elections Department at 415-473-6456 to request another one.
How can I track my ballot to know it has been received and counted?

California voters can sign up for Where’s My Ballot and will be notified via text or email that their ballot has been mailed to them, when it has been received by the Elections Department and when it has been counted. Go to www.ballottrax.net to register for notifications.
Is there a Drop Box in our community?

Yes! Beginning on October 11, you can drop your ballot off at the Belvedere City Hall. The Drop Box will be available to receive ballots until 8:00pm on Election Day, November 8, 2022.
Where is my polling center?

The Westminster Presbyterian Church is the closest polling center for our community. The Polling Center will be open the following days and times: Saturday, November 5 9:00am – 5:00pm Sunday, November 6 12:00pm – 8:00pm Monday, November 7 9:00am – 5:00pm Tuesday, November 8 7:00am – 8:00pm
Is there someone available to help me get to the polling center?

Yes! We are lucky to live in a supportive community and we are happy to help anyone who needs assistance in getting to the polls. Please call one of us and we will make arrangements to take you to the polls November 5 – November 8. Jerry Riessen 415-786-2833 Chris Wagner 415-847-7800 Erica Williams 415-686-4398