Election Day Is Tuesday: What CRE Needs to Know Before Voting

Before you cast your ballot on November 3, take another look at the races and measures that could affect your building’s bottom line.

Election Day is almost here. California’s November 3, 2026 General Election includes decisions with lasting consequences for commercial real estate, from new property taxes to the local leaders responsible for permitting, public safety, and business regulations.

BOMA/GLA previously shared our 2026 Voter Guide to help members prepare. With the election this Tuesday, here is a reminder of two proposed parcel taxes we oppose and our endorsements in key Los Angeles races.

Two Parcel Taxes. Significant New Costs.

Commercial property owners are already managing rising insurance, utilities, labor, and maintenance expenses. Proposed parcel taxes in Pasadena and Culver City would add another recurring cost.

Pasadena Fire Parcel Tax: Vote No

Pasadena’s proposed fire parcel tax would charge $0.19 per square foot of improved building space annually for 14 years.

For a 250,000-square-foot building, that means approximately $47,500 each year or $665,000 over the life of the tax. Because the assessment is based on building square footage, vacancies would not reduce that obligation.

BOMA/GLA recognizes the importance of reliable fire protection and emergency services. However, we oppose placing this substantial additional burden on property owners already facing financial pressures.

Culver City Measure AA: Vote No

Measure AA would charge $0.48 per square foot of building improvements annually for 10 years, capped at $15,000 per parcel each year, to support Culver City public schools.

A property reaching that cap would face $150,000 in additional taxes over 10 years.

BOMA/GLA supports strong public schools, but we oppose adding another property-based tax as the costs of owning and operating commercial buildings continue to climb.

BOMA/GLA’s Los Angeles Endorsements

The officials elected Tuesday will help shape the conditions in which our members operate. BOMA/GLA supports:

• John McKinney for Los Angeles City Attorney: His focus on retail theft, vandalism, and public safety aligns with the needs of commercial property owners, businesses, and tenants.
• Tim Gaspar for Los Angeles City Council District 3: His priorities include public safety, economic competitiveness, and policies that encourage business investment and job growth.

For statewide races and ballot propositions, review BOMA California’s endorsements and positions.

Open

Your Vote Shapes Your Building’s Business Environment

Local election results influence how quickly tenant improvements move through approvals, how cities respond to public safety concerns, and how much owners and businesses pay in taxes and fees. Those decisions affect operating budgets, tenant retention, and the ability to bring vacant spaces back into use.

Before you vote, revisit BOMA/GLA’s 2026 Voter Guide and share it with colleagues who own, manage, or work in properties across Greater Los Angeles.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 3. Make sure commercial real estate’s concerns are part of the conversation and that your voice is counted.