ETA Functions
The Association provides many functions
The main functions of the ETA center around creating a network of information flow through the community. With the consent of the ETA membership the ETA also conducts major action campaigns. Between campaigns the ETA:
- Monitors local government agendas
- Reviews government budgets
- Reports budget findings to the public
- Makes budget recommendations
- Holds forums on public policy
- Issues candidate questionnaires
- Provides a network for grassroots response
- Provides the city a non-partisan stakeholder group interested in long-term issues
- Conducts investigations of city issues
- Assists members with public records requests
- Advocates for open government
- Provides a structure for supporting direct democracy through ballot initiatives
- A watchdog at city hall
overview
The Encinitas Taxpayers Association (ETA) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization.
The ETA has been active since 1986. The Association was started by city founders to monitor the activities of the new city. Since then, the ETA has been monitoring, analyzing, and then responding to issues arising in various governmental agencies with jurisdiction in the City of Encinitas. Encinitas Taxpayers Association’s goal of effective city government and efficient use of tax dollars through sound fiscal policy has served to promote good government practices for over 20 years.
Public policy flows from elections. The ETA organized as a political action committee to allow for participation in ballot and election campaigns.
Key to the continued success of the ETA is our corps of volunteers. All officers and members work without compensation. They dedicate their valuable time because they believe that they can make a difference. The history of ETA shows that they have.
Participating
Participation can come in many forms
Because the organization is run entirely by volunteers, most of who have busy professional careers, the role of each participating member varies. Members' activities can range from occasionally responding to an ETA newsletter with an email to the Mayor to reviewing council agenda reports on a monthly basis.
The ETA is monitoring numerous issues and could benefit from even the occasional assistance with individual tasks such as reviewing a staff report, taking notes on a council meeting, or editing a newsletter. Let us know how you might be able to help.
The decline of the local news media has resulted in fewer news articles and investigative reports. Our daily papers no longer dedicate reporters solely to Encinitas. Investigative reports are rare. As this trend continues, support of organizations like the ETA will become increasingly important.
- National Decline in Investigative Reporting
- Non-profit investigative reporters are trying to fill at the national level