San Pablo Measures R and S: Voters Favor Sales Tax and Rent Protections in Early Count

SAN PABLO, Contra Costa County — November 4, 2026. Two city ballot measures have Yes majorities in preliminary returns. Measure R would change the local sales tax for general city services; Measure S would impose stronger rent-stabilization and tenant-protection rules. Both require a simple majority according to ballot descriptions, but neither is yet certified.

Measure R: tax proposal

The overnight Contra Costa election count lists 2,605 Yes votes (71.59%) and 1,034 No (28.41%) for Measure R. According to Bay City News reporting, the city proposes a half-cent sales tax for five years, followed by a quarter-cent for another five years, to support general city services.

Measure S: rent protections

Measure S has 2,159 Yes votes (59.51%) and 1,469 No (40.49%). The citizen initiative would impose rent-increase limits, change landlord eviction requirements and offer relocation protections under specified conditions. Supporters describe it as necessary tenant protection; opponents, including city leaders cited in local ballot arguments, have expressed concern about administrative costs and complexity. The precise law, exemptions and effective dates must be read in the official ballot text.

Continuing count

City voters also selected councilmembers and other city officers in separate races. Eligible ballots can still be included before certification. Consult Contra Costa Elections for updates.

Unofficial county tallies, November 4, 2026.

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