Hi neighbors,
I wanted to flag an upcoming item that will be arriving by mail and is easy to overlook.
What to expect in your mailbox
Arriving Starting April 17, 2026 Sent by City of Los Angeles, Bureau of Street Lighting Process Proposition 218 ballot (separate from any regular election) Who it affects Property owners, with costs varying by property type and size Cost impact Potentially 2x to 3x current assessment levels for many properties
What is being proposed?
The City of Los Angeles is sending out ballots regarding a proposed increase in street lighting maintenance fees. If approved, this proposal would increase an annual assessment that appears on your property tax bill for street lighting, with costs varying based on property type and size.
For many properties, this could mean an increase of 2x to 3x over current levels. Only ballots that are returned are counted, so participation matters.
One key consideration
I am not taking a position here, but I do think it is important to look at this carefully and not just at face value as a simple "streetlight upgrade."
On the surface: "Do I want more reliable street lighting, including upgrades to LED/solar and reduced outages from copper theft?"
The deeper question: "Do I want to take on an ongoing annual assessment, even after these upgrades are completed? And do I trust the City to add this funding rather than replace existing funding?"
Right now, street lighting is partly supported by the City's general fund, which we all contribute to through taxes. This proposal shifts more of that cost directly onto property owners through a dedicated assessment. There is a broader question about whether this new revenue will add to overall funding or replace what the City is already contributing.
What to do
- Watch your mail carefully starting April 17 for a ballot from the Bureau of Street Lighting.
- Read the materials that come with the ballot carefully before deciding.
- Make an informed decision and return your ballot. Only returned ballots are counted.
View City Information on Prop 218 →
Just wanted to make sure everyone is aware so it does not slip through unnoticed.