Measure RM4 Frequently Asked Questions

Measure RM4 is a pivotal nine-county affordable housing measure appearing on the November 2024 ballot that will unlock $20 billion in funding dedicated to affordable housing and homelessness solutions across the Bay Area.

The Bay Area is in the midst of a severe housing crisis, producing less than half of the affordable homes needed to support our communities. As a result, nearly half (45%) of Bay Area renters are burdened by high rents, and approximately 38,000 people are experiencing homelessness.

Measure RM4 will provide locally controlled funding to build and preserve affordable housing, ensuring that families, workers, and vulnerable populations have access to safe and secure homes.

Measure RM4 would provide funding to: 

Increase Affordable Housing: Provide approximately 70,000 affordable homes. 

Enhance Accessibility: Build new homes near jobs, transit, and stores, improving convenience and reducing commutes. 

 Revitalize Neighborhoods: Transform vacant lots and blighted properties into vibrant communities. 

Enable Ownership: Facilitate pathways to ownership by assisting first-time homebuyers. 

Create Jobs and Boost the Economy: Generate approximately 47,000 construction jobs and another 47,000 permanent jobs. 

 Leverage Additional Funding: Enable the Bay Area to qualify for an estimated $30 billion in additional state and federal matching funds.

Measure RM4 ensures strict fiscal accountability requirements, including:

• An independent citizens’ oversight committee and required annual audits guarantees funds are only used for intended purposes, with public audits submitted to the California State Auditor
• Prohibits use of funds for government salaries or operating expenses, and doesn’t allow entities owned or led by local governing board members to bid on any funded work​​

General obligation bonds are funded through ad valorem property taxes and vary depending on the size of the bond. If passed, this bond will cost property owners $19 per $100,000 in assessed value.

Measure RM4 will appear on the ballot in Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano and Sonoma Counties.  

Measure RM4 will be on the November 5, 2024 ballot.

To learn more about voting visit the Secretary of State’s website sos.ca.gov