2008 Annual Report - Page 3

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Sales taxes approved by voters

In the Nov. 4 election, voters approved three sales taxes totaling 0.55 percent for streets, fire trucks, infrastructure and public transportation. The 0.3 percent sales tax approved as question one, will provide dedicated resources towards Lawrence streets including the rebuilding 19th Street, Iowa to Naismith; Bob Billings Parkway east of Kasold; and portions of Kasold and Wakarusa needing reconstruction.  Additional funds are being dedicated to maintaining neighborhood streets. Sales tax revenues will fund the replacement of the pump station at Fifth and Maple, providing additional storm water protection and completion of the Burroughs Creek rail to trail project in eastern Lawrence.  Additional funds will be used to construct sidewalks throughout Lawrence.  Approval of the sales tax also allows the Fire Medical Department to follow a replacement plan for fire trucks.

Voters also approved a 0.2 percent and 0.05 percent sales taxes to provide dedicated resources to operate the existing fixed route and paratransit service, for individuals with disabilities, and allow for creation of a seamless public transportation system with the University of Kansas.

All sales taxes will be effective April 1, 2009 and sunset in 10 years.  On April 1, 2009 the Lawrence sales tax rate will be 7.85 percent.

Work in 2009 will focus on implementing the programs and projects supported by the sales taxes.  A sales tax audit committee will also be established and will review expenditures to confirm that the funds are being spent on approved projects.  The committee will look at the sales tax receipts and the expenditures made of those collections.