Costa Mesa · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Costa Mesa public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Business License Tax Reform
Costa Mesa hasn't updated its business license tax since 1985, meaning large corporations pay the same flat $200 fee as small shops. The city is considering switching to a sliding scale based on gross receipts to fund essential public safety and infrastructure without hurting small local businesses.
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Proposed Budget
The city adopted a $245.9 million overall budget that balances revenues and expenditures without raising taxes or tapping reserves, though council members raised concerns about police overtime assumptions and vacancy savings.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Mid-Year Budget Update
The city is projecting a balanced budget with a slight surplus, driven by strong sales tax revenues that covered higher-than-expected personnel and overtime costs. Council members debated the accuracy of budget forecasting and the need for stricter spending controls.