Why is California a “Battleground” State?
California communities offer enticing markets for the growth of big-box retail stores and “supercenters” (stores that are much larger than a big-box operator’s normal store and usually offer additional product lines, such as groceries). Notwithstanding the recent real estate slowdown, California is the most populous state and continues to grow at a fast pace, particularly in suburban and rural areas, where big-box retail is more prevalent. California has a high percentage of low-income residents, retirees on fixed incomes, and households that spend a large percentage of their income on housing expenses and other cost-of-living expenses. Big-box stores are attractive to local jurisdictions as a new revenue source to counteract Proposition 13, which since 1978 has severely curbed real property tax revenues. Local agencies often promote businesses with high-volume sales, such as big-box stores and car dealerships that generate significant sales tax revenues. Regulation of Big Box Stores –
