Healdsburg City Council to Discuss SMART Tax Renewal

SMART officials make case for 30-year sales tax extension ahead of crucial June ballot measure

Mar. 16, 2026 at 5:52pm

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Tonight's Healdsburg City Council meeting will feature a presentation from Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) officials as they make the case for a 30-year extension of the agency's quarter-cent sales tax. The tax renewal will be on the June 2 ballot, where it only needs a simple majority to pass following a 2024 state law change. SMART says the tax is essential for the system's long-term financial viability and expansion, but opponents argue the project is expensive and low-ridership.

Why it matters

The SMART tax renewal vote in June is a pivotal moment for the commuter rail system, which relies heavily on the sales tax revenue to operate and fund expansions. The outcome could determine the future of passenger rail in the North Bay region, with supporters arguing it's crucial for the system's sustainability and opponents framing it as an unnecessary taxpayer burden.

The details

SMART officials are expected to outline the latest plans for the Healdsburg rail extension at tonight's City Council meeting, as the agency faces renewed political opposition ahead of the June 2 ballot measure. Opponents, including the Gallaher family who have funded a critical book on SMART, argue the project is expensive and misaligned with local priorities. Supporters counter that extending the tax is essential for SMART's long-term financial health and future expansion.

  • Tonight's Healdsburg City Council meeting is at 6 p.m.
  • Voters will decide on the SMART tax renewal on June 2, 2026.
  • In 2024, a state law change by former Senator Bill Dodd lowered the approval threshold to a simple majority for the tax extension.

The players

Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART)

The commuter rail system that connects Sonoma and Marin counties, relying heavily on a quarter-cent sales tax to operate and fund expansions.

Gallaher family

Sonoma County developers and longtime SMART opponents who have funded a critical book titled 'The Great Train Heist' ahead of the June tax renewal vote.

Molly Gallaher Flater

Daughter of Bill and Cindy Gallaher and chief operating officer of Windsor-based Gallaher Companies, a central figure in past SMART opposition campaigns.

Bill Dodd

Former California State Senator who authored SB 904 in 2024, which lowered the approval threshold for SMART's tax renewal to a simple majority.

Suzanne Smith

From Sure Shot Strategies, will discuss the upcoming SMART Sales Tax Renewal following a request by Healdsburg City Council members.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.