Countywide : Opponents Settle Feud Over Tax Arguments

Opposing sides in the campaign for a countywide half-cent sales tax for transportation have agreed to alter language in their arguments on the November ballot.

Each group has contended that the other’s arguments are false and misleading and has sought court orders to have them changed.

Attorneys for both sides are expected seek Superior Court Judge Eileen C. Moore’s approval of the settlement today.

The measure calls for raising the sales tax from 6% to 6.5% to pay for freeway and transportation projects.

Orange County Transportation Commissioner Dana Reed, who is also treasurer of Citizens for Yes on M, filed suit late last month seeking to remove a section of the opponents’ statement saying that approval of the tax would result in a debt of “$18 billion, plus interest.”

Andrew Guilford, Reed’s attorney, said that as part of the settlement, foes had agreed to change the $18-billion figure.

In a cross-petition, tax foe Russell Burkett alleged that supporters included endorsements on their argument that would give voters the false impression that several groups support the measure. Randy Goodwin, the on-site manager of Citizens for Measure M, said that group agreed to clarify the endorsements.

Both sides have also agreed to pay for their own attorney fees, Guilford said.