Embodied within the intricate pages of the Political Code of the State of California lies a section of profound significance, one that resonates deeply with the essence of honoring veterans' legacies. In 1923, section 4041f of this Code stands as a testament to the enduring commitment of the People of California towards providing for the valiant individuals who have selflessly served the nation.
This section of the code focuses on the authority of County Supervisors to acquire property for the Veterans memorial buildings across the state, this code empowers these public officials to execute a range of pivotal duties. Among them, the authority to levy taxes for constructing structures that serve as enduring tributes, memorial halls, and vital meeting places for veterans.
Section 4041f of the Political Code of the State of California (1921)
§4041f. Homes and meeting places for veterans. Any county may provide and maintain ( 1 ) a home or homes for veteran soldiers, sailors and marines who have served the United States honorably in any of its wars; ( 2 ) buildings, memorial halls, or meeting places for the use of patriotic, fraternal and benevolent associations of such persons. For these purposes the board of supervisors of any county shall have jurisdiction and power:
(a) To purchase, receive by donation, take by condemnation, lease or otherwise acquire, real or personal property necessary for such building or buildings, and to improve, preserve, take care of, manage and control the same.
(b) To purchase, construct or lease, build or rebuild, furnish or re furnish, or repair any and all such buildings, and to provide all necessary custodians, employees, attendants and supplies for the proper maintenance of the same.
(c) To levy in any year a special tax not to exceed three mills on the one dollar of assessed valuation on all the taxable property in the county, such tax to be in addition to all other taxes provided for and the fund so created to be expended for the purposes hereof.
(d) To establish a fund or funds for the purposes hereof, and to transfer from the general fund to such fund or funds, from time to time, such moneys as the board may deem necessary.
(e) To incur, in the manner provided by law, a bonded indebtedness on behalf of the county for any of the purposes hereof.
Legislation § 4041f. Added by Stats. 1921 , p. 476.
(The Political Code of the State of California adopted March 12, 1872. With amendments up to and including those of the 45th session of the Legislature, 1923. Page 1226.)
As we trace the footsteps of history, the remarkable significance of March 20th, 1922, emerges as a pivotal moment etched in the annals of Contra Costa County. On this day, the County Board of Supervisors, driven by their noble duty to honor and support veterans, took a resolute step by levying a special tax. This tax, authorized by Section 4041f of the Political Code of the State of California, marked a tangible commitment to the enduring well-being of our veterans. An exploration of this very code reveals its inherent purpose: to create lasting memorials, halls, and gathering spaces for veterans. In this pursuit, there's no mention of provisions for a fire station or any other community service. A year later, in 1923, the property's acquisition took place, financed from the "Veterans Soldiers Sailors and Marines Home Fund." This legacy serves as a testament to the County's dedication to preserving veterans' honor and memory. As we stand at this juncture, let's remember that the echoes of the past guide our steps toward a future where veterans' sacrifices are eternally enshrined in the heart of our community.
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