On April 4, 2023, Warrensburg residents will be asked to vote on increasing the general sales tax by one cent per dollar for the purpose of providing funds for city operations. One-half cent will be dedicated to public safety personnel, operations, and equipment. The other one-half cent will be used for streets, sidewalks, and stormwater improvements as well as other operational expenses.
Ballot Question
Shall the City Council of the City of Warrensburg, Missouri be authorized to increase its general sales tax by one percent for the purpose of providing funds for the City, with one-half (1/2) of such taxes collected to be used for public safety in the City and one-half (1/2) of such taxes collected to be used for general purposes of the City including but not limited to additional staffing, increased compensation and benefits for employees, and infrastructure and capital improvements for the City?
The 1-cent sales tax is estimated to generate approximately $4.7 million each year for the general fund. The general fund includes operations for police, fire, public works, community development, and support services (i.e., finance, human resources, information technology). The city has experienced unprecedented turnover in police and fire the last several years. It is becoming increasingly difficult to hire for police, fire and public works positions due to higher wages offered in competing communities and industries. As the cost of personnel has increased, street, sidewalk, and stormwater maintenance has been deferred and replacement of equipment has been delayed.
This additional sales tax will provide for salary adjustments for all employees as well as additional personnel in police, fire, and public works. The additional sales tax will also fund equipment replacement and street, sidewalk, and stormwater projects. Proposed equipment includes police vehicles, personal protective equipment for firefighters, and upgrades to snow and ice removal equipment. Proposed street and stormwater projects include additional funding for the street maintenance program (including curb and sidewalks), total reconstruction of several failing street, and lining of failing stormwater structures.
For more information such as "Things to Know" and "Frequently Asked Questions," click on this link: https://www.warrensburg-mo.com/902/Investing-in-Warrensburg
