Tax Ordinance Changes Spark Urgent Board Meeting

In a recent government meeting, officials addressed critical updates regarding sales tax ordinances and upcoming elections. The discussion centered on the necessary documentation for a November election, emphasizing that all required documents must be submitted by October, as mandated by state statute.

Officials clarified that the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) indicated that the final document for the election proclamation would not be available until April 1. This delay could impact the collection of a proposed five-eighth cent sales tax, intended to fund approved projects starting January 1 and running through December 31, 2034. The board expressed concern that any postponement could result in a loss of six months of tax revenue for these initiatives.

During the meeting, it was noted that there were minor errors in the ordinance documentation, including incorrect ordinance numbers and provisions that could have inadvertently limited the duration of the proposed tax. These issues were categorized as \"misprisions,\" and the board sought a motion to acknowledge and accept the necessary modifications without requiring a complete re-passage of the ordinances. The motion was approved unanimously, allowing the corrected documents to be submitted to the county and state promptly.

Additionally, the agenda included a resolution to amend a contract with Enterprise FM Trust for leasing 48 vehicles for the Little Rock Police Department. This item was added to the consent agenda following a motion and subsequent approval.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for public comment, allowing residents to voice their opinions on the discussed matters.