Measure Z, Santa Cruz’s sugar-sweetened beverage tax, has taken an early lead in the polls according to preliminary results.
The “Yes” vote has garnered 52.09% of the vote so far compared to 47.91% on “No” votes out of 18,219 votes counted.
The Santa Cruz City Council put the measure on the ballot to curb the consumption of soda and other sugary drinks in the city.
“(I’m) feeling proud of our accomplishments in elevating the conversation about this important issue and (am) optimistic!” said District 3 City Council member Shebreh Kalantari-Johnson in a text message.