How I’m voting for the environment on Nov. 7, 2006, for the City of Santa Monica. Here are my votes for the state-level propositions and for the state-level offices.

My vote on Measure V: Yes

Basically, Measure V would help clean up our dirty beaches by repairing our storm drain system and cleaning up the storn drain runoff that gets spewed into the ocean.

The money for this — about $23 million a year — would come from a parcel tax: Residents of Santa Monica would be charged between $2 and $7 a month (more for businesses, depending on size) initially, with these rates adjusted according to the Consumer Price Index each year.

We already know our beaches are dirty. Since the Regional Water Quality Control Board can fine Santa Monica up to $10,000 a day if we fail to meet stormwater pollution control requirements, it seems like a better idea to use money to clean beaches by passing Measure V instead of having to use money to pay fines.

All the enviro-groups have come out in support of this one: Heal the Bay, Sierra Club, Santa Monica Baykeeper, Natural Resources Defense Council, Global Green — among others :)

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