Independent oversight committee confirms continued taxpayer accountability and progress on transportation improvements across Orange County
ORANGE – For the 34th year in a row, the Measure M Taxpayer Oversight Committee has confirmed that the Orange County Transportation Authority is delivering on its promises to voters, responsibly investing in transportation improvements that enhance how people move throughout Orange County.
At its annual public hearing held Tuesday, the 11-member independent oversight committee found that OCTA is proceeding in accordance with the Measure M transportation investment plan. Originally approved by voters in 1990 and overwhelmingly renewed by nearly 70% of voters in 2006, Measure M is a half-cent sales tax that funds critical transportation infrastructure, services and programs throughout the county.
“Accountability and transparency are at the heart of OCTA’s mission to serve Orange County residents,” said OCTA Chair Doug Chaffee, also the county’s Fourth District Supervisor. “The Taxpayer Oversight Committee plays a vital role in ensuring we deliver on the promises made through Measure M. It’s encouraging to know that for the 34th consecutive year, this independent committee has found that we are meeting our commitments and investing transportation funds responsibly to enhance mobility and quality of life across our communities.”
The Taxpayer Oversight Committee was established to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of Measure M funds. Its responsibilities include monitoring spending, reviewing proposed changes to the plan, and holding annual public hearings to confirm that OCTA is fulfilling its commitments.
Measure M is forecast to generate approximately $14 billion through 2041, supporting a balanced, sustainable transportation network. Funding is allocated as follows: 43% for freeway improvements, 32% for street enhancements, and 25% for transit projects. The plan also supports two environmental programs focused on preserving open space and reducing transportation-related pollution.
Key goals of Measure M include:
- Relieving traffic congestion
- Maintaining and improving transportation infrastructure
- Supporting community and regional transit options
- Synchronizing traffic signals across jurisdictions
- Providing cost-effective transportation for seniors and people with disabilities
- Preserving and restoring natural habitat
- Reducing pollution associated with transportation.
Since its inception, Measure M has enabled more than $6 billion in transportation improvements, benefiting residents, commuters, and visitors throughout Orange County.
For more information about Measure M or the Taxpayer Oversight Committee, visit www.octa.net/TOC.
