The organizers of a proposed ballot measure that would raise money for the downtown convention center and homelessness programs announced a major endorsement Monday.
The "Yes! For a Better San Diego" campaign proposes a 42-year increase in the city's visitor tax that they say would generate $3.78 billion to expand and update the Convention Center, $2.02 billion for homeless services and $604 million for street repairs over the life of the measure. They must gather at least 71,000 signatures for the issue to appear on the November ballot.
If approved by voters, the measure would increase the visitor tax on hotel bills in the city of San Diego by 1.25 percent to 3.25 percent. hotels closest to the Convention Center would see the largest hike.
On Monday, the San Diego Police Officers Association endorsed the plan at a news conference. The campaign says the upgrades to and expansion of the convention center would generate $40 billion in economic activity over the life of thesan measure and create about 7,000 jobs.