Councilmember Robles makes pitch for universal basic income inclusion in Elk Grove's annual budgets

Bucking the standard operating procedure of Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen and the Elk Grove City Council, Councilmember Sergio Robles urged the city to invest in Elk Grove's human capital.

During the Wednesday, May 22, 2024, Elk Grove City Council meeting, Robles discussed the possibility of creating a UBS - universal basic income for qualifying city residents. 

Mr. Robles' remarks were made during the city council deliberations on the soon-to-be-adopted fiscal year 2025 budget. Specifically, Robles said he would like to explore a UBI for families participating in the city's various workforce development programs.

"If we don't take risks helping out our own citizens, why are we here," Robles said. "And I mean this even for me, 'why am I here," right? Why am I here? We need to help out those who need a hand."

Robles complimented Elk Grove resident Lynn Wheat for participating in the budget discussion. Wheat, who spoke during public comments, was the only member of the public in the audience during the budget deliberations. 

"Ms. Lynn Wheat brought something - thank you for being her first of all," he said to Wheat. You are very correct. There needs to be more people engaged, especially when we are talking about budget, especially when our finance. Thank you for being here."

View the video for additional comments on UBI from Robles, City Councilmember Kevin Spease, and City Manager Jason Behrmann.