County Needs Prop. B

San Diego County’s Proposition B asks voters on June 7 to raise through 1992 the cap on annual spending imposed by the Gann limitation. The county expects it will reach its limit next year, which could force it to refund excess taxes, as the state did last year. But, more important financially, the county will have to turn down additional state funds if the limit is not waived.

Under legislation passed last year, the state agreed to take over the cost of operating trial courts, which would save the county $33.6 million. That money could then be put toward such underfunded local programs as those dealing with mental health, drug abuse, AIDS and medical care for the poor.

The county also is seeking, in four lawsuits, an additional share of state funds. The county ranks 57th out of the state’s 58 counties in per-capita share of funds. County administrators say that, if the county were receiving the statewide average, it would mean an added $152 million for county programs.

But, even if the county succeeds in its litigation, it could not accept added funds under the present Gann limit.

Also on next month’s ballot is a statewide initiative that would increase the Gann limit. Proposition 71 would adjust the formula that determines how much local governments can spend. The net increase for San Diego County would be about $16 million. This would be a help, but would still be insufficient to let the county fully benefit from the state court takeover.

Given the overwhelming, and legitimate, demands for social services facing San Diego County, a yes vote on Proposition B is crucial to the county’s strategy to meet its responsibilities, and is a step that can be accomplished without increasing taxes.