October 14, 2008

CITIZENS DESERVE THE RIGHT TO DECIDE

With the end of the calendar year approaching, we also begin to think about the State Legislative session which is also approaching.  In fact, the time to prepare legislative agendas is upon us right now.

The Partnership hosted a meeting recently for our members and allies to discuss with legislators the needs of the region. Nearly 20 ideas were presented.  All were legitimate needs that deserve attention and funding.  However, in reality very few of the worthy projects and initiatives will receive any meaningful attention. We understand this because we know how tight funds are within the state budget. So what is the answer?  How about allowing each individual city/county the right to ask their citizens what projects they would be willing to pay for through a special locally imposed tax. Seems fair?

This is exactly what other communities in other states are already doing.  Cities such as Oklahoma City and Richmond have the right to call for a vote of the people within that jurisdiction on a specific project to tax themselves.  Once the project is completed, the tax goes away. Some communities have the law that allows process to exist with only a majority vote. Others require a super majority of 60 percent or more.  This sales tax could exempt certain items such as groceries. If the opportunity existed in Jackson, we may even see restaurants and lodging exempt, due to the fact they are already collecting tax for the Capital City Convention Center.

The beauty of the municipal option sales tax is that it can address each community’s unique need.  Some cities/counties need street maintenance, while others may need a library or a park.  Whatever the project, the key is that the majority of the local citizens must want it or there is no project.  This is truly giving power to the people at the grassroots level.

You think this sounds good and would seem logical to pass state legislation to make it possible? Well, it has been attempted many times in the past and each effort failed. We would like to know your feelings on this idea.  Should local municipalities have the right to pass a tax upon themselves for a worthy project in the community? Contact me at doneill@greaterjacksonpartnership.com to let me know your thoughts.