Author

Shawn Carrera

Date of Award

2016

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Abstract

This study addresses the research question of whether San Francisco taxpayers are willing to support a 0.03 percent sales tax increase to fund affordable housing for city artists. This tax initiative seeks to maintain and increase the number of artists living in the city during economic hardships because San Francisco attracts many visitors by being a cultural center for artistic expression. Published studies in literature were used to inform the subtopics of this study: the cost of rent, artists’ incomes, artists’ contributions, sales tax effectiveness, tax popularity with voters, and affordable housing. Survey data was used from one hundred San Francisco residents to assess the extent to which they supported this proposal. Findings from interviews with artists in the city and professionals at artist-supporting organizations were used for further insight. The study provided information as to the level of interest in supporting artists through a local tax initiative.

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