Revenue Solutions: Town Hall Meeting: Results

Revenue Solutions: Town Hall Meeting: Results

The Town Hall held September 23rd at City Hall.  Turnout was good with over 50 attendees, 83% city residents.  The meeting opened with an overview from City Manager Koester and Mayor Wythe on where the City’s finances currently stand and meeting goals.  Community members in attendance were provided an opportunity to share their opinions and ask questions of the City Manager and Mayor.  The public was brought up to speed on the barriers, pros and cons of many different revenue options, however the 5 options that a) raised significant revenue and b) were feasible for 2016 were discussed in detail and the public was asked to share pros and cons of each option. After an open floor discussion of each option the audience was asked to vote on whether they would like to see these options enacted. 

 

Community members were in favor of seeing 3 of the 5 possible solutions enacted. 

Most in Favor (Percentages include all positive responses; ‘In Favor’, ‘Mostly in Favor’, ‘Somewhat in Favor’)

1-Seasonal sales tax increase of 1% over 2nd and 3rd quarter - 90%
2-Suspend HART fund for 2-5 years - 88%
3-Increase sales tax 0.5% - 74%

Most not in Favor (Percentages include all negative responses; ‘Mostly not in favor’, ‘Not in favor’)

1-No new Revenue (making up deficit by cuts only)- 72%
2-Raise property tax – 61%

Community members were also asked to leave comments after voting concluded.  Comments ​ranged from emphasizing supporting of suggested solutions to alterations of proposed ideas.  ​