Monterey County’s voters approved Measure AA, a 1% transaction and use tax in the unincorporated area, with the Recommended Budget incorporating $25 million of anticipated annual revenue. For FY 2026-27, the County plans to use about $8.4 million for ongoing unincorporated-area costs (including 23.5 sworn Sheriff positions, animal services, and planning programs) and $16.6 million for one-time unincorporated-area needs, to be appropriated during the fiscal year. The budget notes that detailed allocations for the one-time portion will be determined annually as more revenue history is available and needs are refined.This structure signals a flexible pool of funding that can support capital, public safety, infrastructure, homelessness, parks, and planning projects in the unincorporated area. Vendors can monitor Board actions as Measure AA expenditures are programmed and position themselves as solutions providers for unincorporated-area priorities—especially public safety technology, road and facility repairs, encampment cleanup and outreach, and community amenities funded with these discretionary dollars.

Measure AA is limited to unincorporated areas and creates a recurring discretionary funding stream; detailed one-time project lists will be set via in-year Board actions.