Mendocino Council of Governments staff presented the results of a commissioned FM3 survey showing strong initial support among likely unincorporated-area voters for a proposed 1¢, 20-year transportation sales tax aimed at repairing county roads.

Lucia of FM3 told the board the dual-mode survey (online and phone) contacted 660 likely November 2026 voters with a margin of error near 4 percentage points. Initial “top of the survey” language produced about 66% yes; when adjusted for leaners the firm reported roughly 61% definite/probable support. Support rose to about 69% after exposure to positive educational language and dropped to about 61% after exposure to critical opposition statements, demonstrating some fluidity depending on messaging.

FM3’s results also ranked priorities for spending: permanently resurfacing potholes (78% saying extremely or very important), preventing roads from deteriorating further (70%), prolonging life of existing roads, repairing major county roads and storm damage, and pedestrian improvements. Respondents strongly preferred accountability measures: 90% said funds spent locally and strict public disclosure would increase their support, and independent annual audits and citizen oversight were widely favored.

Board members asked methodological questions: the survey did not educate respondents about distinctions among county, city and state roads; it tested only a 1¢ rate (not half-cent options); there were no incentives offered for participation; and the survey was conducted in English only. FM3 said geographic sub-splits exist in the data but have higher margins of error.

Michael Via, MCOG regional project coordinator, introduced the presentation and confirmed the polling was done in partnership with county staff and that county counsel reviewed survey language for legal conformity. The survey results were presented to inform potential next steps; any ballot measure would be developed with additional analysis and pursued by implementing agencies or the county.