Phoenix residents rejected two citizen initiatives—Propositions 105 and 106—at the Aug. 27 special election. Proposition 105 would have terminated funding for future light rail expansion in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area and to allocate revenue from the transportation tax towards other infrastructure projects. Proposition 106 would have required the city to limit budget growth and devote a greater portion of its budget to pay down its $4.5 billion pension debt.

 

The unofficial results indicate that both measures were defeated. Opposition to Proposition 105 led the race with 62.3 percent to 37.7 percent according to election night results. Proposition 106 was behind with 66.2 percent of voters against it. By the last election night report, about 90 percent of ballots had been counted.

 

Invest in PHX led the opposition campaign against both propositions. They held an election watch party in the heart of downtown Phoenix. When the unofficial results were reported, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego addressed the room stating: “I did not anticipate the national spotlight which would shine on our city about these ballot propositions. … We have said strongly we want to invest in the future of our city.” Invest in PHX raised $933,000 in campaign contributions according to pre-election reports that covered activity through Aug. 10.

 

Phoenix Councilmember Sal DiCiccio (District 6), who supported both initiatives, said, “Like many of you, I am disappointed to see tonight’s election results. I want to thank everyone who worked on these initiatives and who helped share our message throughout the city. You have my commitment that I will continue to fight for accountability and fiscal responsibility at the City of Phoenix.”

 

The support campaign for Proposition 105, Building a Better Phoenix, raised $488,000 in contributions according to pre-election reports. The Proposition 106 campaign, Responsible Budgets, raised $298,000.

 

The question of light rail expansion has been before Phoenix voters three times prior to Proposition 105. Voters have decided four other pension-related propositions since March 2013.