The author warns that the use of higher sales taxes in California can be used for anything, including improvements to transit programs, roads, parks, and public safety. This tactic has been successful in other jurisdictions, but there is no evidence of progress. A union-led coalition is pushing for a half-cent increase in the county sales tax via a November ballot measure, claiming the new revenue would help clean up the Tijuana River toxic sewage crisis, increase access to affordable health care for families, and keep local children safe, fed and cared for. The author points out that such tax increases are often sold with focus group-tested promises of addressing key issues such as child care, health care, the Tabulous River sewage crisis and public security.