ALERT: Commission may vote on tax increase June 16th

If you are a Historic City News reader concerned about the cost of a potential sales tax election, you are encouraged to attend one, or both, of the upcoming meetings to address your concerns directly to the St Johns County Commission.

Communications Specialist Sarah Hand has announced that there will be two public hearings regarding ballot language that would potentially give voters the opportunity to vote on a sales tax in an upcoming election.  A potential sales tax election could cost taxpayers $200,000 or more.

“We just went through the agony and expense of a special legislative election after John Thrasher decided to give up his seat in the Senate, almost immediately after being re-elected,” Historic City News editor, Michael Gold, commented.  “Although the sales-tax-increase supporters accuse sales-tax-increase objectors with not wanting to allow voters to decide whether or not to put the nearly 17% increase on the ballot; I do not believe there would be the same objection if supporters simply waited to put the referendum in next year’s regularly budgeted elections.”

The first reading of the ordinance is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on June 2nd, during the regular county commission meeting. No action is anticipated to be taken at that time.

The second reading is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on June 16th, during a special meeting in which the Board could take action.

Both meetings will be held in the County Administration Building Auditorium, 500 San Sebastian View.

As currently proposed, the sales tax referendum would include a one-cent increase in the local sales tax, a ten-year term limitation, a citizen oversight committee, and a specific list of programs and facilities that would be maintained, enhanced, or constructed should voters approve the sales tax increase.

The County Commission is seeking resident feedback regarding this important issue. Residents who are unable to attend either public hearing are encouraged to visit the St. Johns County website at www.sjcfl.us and contact the County Commissioners to voice their opinion through an email or a phone call.

If you would like to submit feedback regarding this important topic, please send an email to townhall@sjcfl.us or call 904.209.1202.