Florence: City sales tax on November ballot
With valuations down and the mill levy increasing, the City of Florence again will try for a city sales tax.
Florence City Council decided Thursday in a special meeting to propose a one-cent sales tax on the November ballot.
"I think it's a must," said councilman Bryan Harper.
A city sales tax of .75 percent was proposed last November but was defeated. Mayor Jon Lehman asked the council what needed to be done for it to pass this time.
"People didn't know what was going on," said councilman Randy Mills.
Harper agreed saying, "When people don't understand, they vote 'no.' People need to know we need it."
Harper said if this was explained to residents, they would be able to understand it and support it.
"We're talking about 75 cents on every $100 spent," Harper said. "It's a cup of coffee."
Harper said it could be spent for streets or whatever needs to be done.
"People spend $100 a week in Florence," Harper continued. "Wouldn't it be nice to spend 75 cents a week for the community?"
Harper said he already has made arrangements for flyers to be distributed door-to-door.
City clerk Darla Gore said the city attorney would write the resolution with the question and have it published three times in the official city newspaper, the Peabody Gazette-Bulletin. Gore will contact the attorney.
Lehman asked residents in attendance for comments.
Comments were voters did not fully understand the issue. Many thought only residents would be taxed.
Mary Jane Grimmett said having the question on the November ballot with the election of the U.S. President may entice more voters to participate.
Other comments were to go for the full one percent instead of .75 percent.
Jeannie Meirowsky said people would support it if they knew the funds were being handled properly.
Mills said the funds would go in the city's general fund and then be distributed.
"Jeannie makes a good point that the money can't be spent frivolously," Mills said.
The council discussed the use of city sales tax funds for capital improvements but wanted the flexibility if needed for city expenses.
Following discussion and public comment, the council approved a one-cent city sales tax on the November 2 ballot.
Harper was appointed to oversee the promotion of the sales tax.
