Independent Panel Confirms OCTA Continues to Deliver Measure M Transportation Improvements as Promised

For the 35th consecutive year, Taxpayer Oversight Committee confirms OCTA is keeping its commitments to the voter-approved half-cent sales tax

ORANGE - The Measure M Taxpayer Oversight Committee has confirmed that the Orange County Transportation Authority continues to deliver its commitments to the voters of Orange County.

During an annual public hearing held Tuesday, June 9, the 11-member independent oversight committee confirmed that OCTA is consistent with the Measure M transportation investment plan. It's the 35th year in a row the committee has made the finding that OCTA is delivering on the plan as promised.

Measure M is a half-cent sales tax that funds critical transportation infrastructure, services, and programs throughout the county. This plan was originally approved by voters in 1990 and renewed by nearly 70% of voters in 2006.

"The confirmation from the Taxpayer Oversight Committee is an integral part of ensuring transparency in how taxpayer funds are used to improve the county's transportation," said OCTA Chair Jamey M. Federico. "OCTA remains committed to fiscal responsibility and accountability in every Measure M investment."

The independent Taxpayer Oversight Committee was established to monitor OCTA's use of Measure M funding and uphold transparency and accountability. Its responsibilities include approving changes to the investment plan and holding annual public hearings to confirm OCTA's fulfillment of its commitments.

Measure M is expected to generate approximately $13.2 billion through 2041 while supporting a balanced and sustainable transportation network. Funding allocates 43% for freeway improvements, 32% for street enhancements, and 25% for transit projects. The plan also sponsors two environmental programs to protect open spaces and reduce transportation emissions.

Key goals of Measure M include:

• Easing traffic congestion
• Maintaining and enhancing transportation infrastructure
• Supporting and expanding community and regional transit options
• Coordinating traffic signals across the county
• Providing affordable transportation for seniors and people with disabilities
• Preserving and restoring natural habitat
• Lowering transportation-related pollution

As Measure M celebrates its 15th year - the halfway point of its 30-year lifespan - the program has enabled more than $6 billion in transportation improvements, delivering meaningful benefits to residents, commuters and visitors across Orange County.

For more information about Measure M or the Taxpayer Oversight Committee, visit https://www.octa.net/TOC.

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