Benicia Approves Proposed Parks, Landscape, and Lighting Assessment District (PLLAD) Under Proposition 218

Preliminary ballot results show Benicia property owners have approved the formation of a new citywide Parks, Landscape, and Lighting Assessment District (PLLAD), ensuring dedicated funding for the maintenance and improvement of the city’s public spaces and infrastructure. At the November 4th City Council meeting, the City Clerk will present the certified vote total, and once adopted by the City Council, the preliminary result becomes official.  

The measure passed by 52.88% of weighted ballots. The city received a total number of 3,845 ballots, of which 2,056 voted yes and 1,789 voted no. The weighted results (based on the assessment value of the parcel) had a final result of 52.88% in favor of the assessment.  

On October 14, 2025, the Benicia City Council held a special public hearing on the proposed PLLAD. In accordance with Proposition 218, a ballot proceeding was conducted to allow property owners to vote on the proposed assessments. Ballots were tabulated on October 15, 2025, with a majority of weighted ballots cast in favor of establishing the district, according to preliminary results. 

“This action represents a necessary step to ensure the ongoing maintenance of the City’s parks, playgrounds, trails, streetlights, and landscaped areas, while also creating a stable funding source for future capital improvements that enhance the community’s infrastructure and amenities,” said City Manager Mario Giuliani. “We are grateful to the property owners who supported and believed in Benicia with this measure. With the PLLAD in place, Benicia will be able to better maintain and improve these vital community resources.” 

The new PLLAD replaces the city’s prior Landscape and Lighting Assessment District (LLAD), under which only 25% of property owners contributed to the maintenance of five of Benicia’s 28 parks. By contrast, the citywide PLLAD establishes three funding zones to ensure equitable contributions across the community, supporting: 

Funds from the PLLAD are restricted to parks, public landscaping, and lighting. No PLLAD funds can go to the city’s general fund. 

Assessment Rates by Zone: 

The approved assessment goes into effect on August 1, 2026.