Measure E is a half-cent sales tax to implement water quality programs in Clear Lake and has been placed on the ballot by a unanimous vote of the Lake County Board of Supervisors. If passed, it would impose a half-cent sales tax on transactions in the county.

The sales tax monies raised would be used to (1) fund nuisance weed and algae abatement programs; (2) strengthen efforts to prevent infestation of quagga and zebra mussels from infesting Clear Lake; and (3) fund water quality programs to comply with state and federal regulatory conditions to protect and improve Clear Lake’s water quality.

Sales tax monies raised through Measure E would only be spent on the lake. Revenues cannot be diverted to any other purposes. In addition to an annual independent audit, the establishment of a citizens oversight committee will insure transparency. Measure E will sunset in 10 years.

While some work to improve and maintain the quality of the lake has been under way, a reliable source of funding is essential if it is to continue. The health of the lake depends on programs such as the Middle Creek Marsh Wetland Restoration and the prevention of the infestation of quagga mussels.

Since excessive algae growth and poor water quality has had a negative impact on the tourism industry, passage of Measure E will likely have positive effects for the local economy, and increased discussion about the proposal is likely to raise awareness and support of ecological issues regarding the lake.

Therefore, by a majority vote, the Lake County Winery Association Board of Directors supports Measure E and urges the winery membership and the community of Lake County to vote in favor of Measure E.

“Restoring the health of Clear Lake is imperative for the health of the lake and it is critical for the future of our community and for Lake County tourism,” said Lake County Winery Association Vice Chair Gregory Graham.

The Lake County Winery Association is a nonprofit organization founded in 2007.

The association serves over 50 vintners and associate members who share a mission to promote awareness of Lake County’s wine industry, quality high elevation wines and superb tourism opportunities while preserving and protecting the pristine beauty of the region.

The Lake County Winery Association strives to promote and protect the County’s unique and distinct rural attributes – our lake, our mountain, our air and our land.

Monica Rosenthal is executive director of the Lake County Winery Association, www.lakecountywineries.org . She lives in Middletown, Calif.