The Pleasanton City Council has voted to place a measure on the November 3, 2026 ballot that would increase the city’s Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). The council unanimously approved the placement of the measure during its July 7 meeting. If approved by voters, the tax would rise in two phases: from 8 percent to 10 percent on July 1, 2027, and to 12 percent on July 1, 2028.
The city states the measure aims to address a structural operating budget deficit and support city services and programs. Based on current hotel occupancy rates, the city projects the increase will generate approximately $2.8 million annually once fully implemented. The city notes that the tax is paid primarily by overnight visitors staying in hotels and motels rather than by residents.
Mayor Jack Balch stated, "We’ve spent the past year steering Pleasanton towards a more fiscally sustainable future." He added that community engagement included close interaction with the hospitality industry.
The city council began exploring the potential tax increase in August 2025 as part of broader discussions on long-term financial sustainability. The city evaluated revenue options, met with local hotel operators, and reviewed rates in Alameda County. The current 8 percent rate has remained unchanged since 1983 and is among the lowest in the county. The proposed increase would align Pleasanton with neighboring communities that have rates between 10 and 14 percent.
