Early results in Tuesdays election show voters in El Cajon supporting a half-cent sales tax while one council member had a strong lead against a challenger seeking his seat.

Measure J would extend a half-cent sales tax originally passed in 2008, continuing a tax rate of 8.25% until March 31, 2049. The tax generates $13 million annually for the city, accounting for 14 percent of general fund revenues, but is set to expire in 2029.

This is the citys second attempt in two years at extending the tax increase. A measure that asked voters to support a full-cent tax increase failed in 2022, with about 61% of voters opposed.

The new tax measure was supported by El Cajon Fire Capt. John Oslovar, El Cajon Police Officers Association President Melad Tilko and San Diego County Taxpayers Association President and CEO Haney Hong.

It was opposed by Reform California Chairman Carl DeMaio, San Diego County Tax Fighters Chairman Richard Rider and California Latino Voter Alliance Chairman Stevie Esparza.

Only one council seat was on the ballot this year, with incumbent Steve Goble facing challenger Courtney Hall, a data and research analyst with the County of San Diego in District 4. Early results Tuesday night showed Goble with a strong lead over Hall.

District 2 representative Michelle Metschell and District 3 representative Phil Ortiz ran unopposed.

Goble, a retired business professional, said securing funding for fire and police through Measure J, addressing homelessness and ensuring roads and underground pipes are in good condition were his top priorities in the campaign.

Hall said homelessness, economic opportunity and representation in the city were among her top priorities.