Mill Creek City Council discusses new quarter percent sales tax for transportation funding

In a recent Millcreek City Council work session held on April 28, 2025, city officials discussed the implications of a newly approved quarter-percent sales tax designated for transportation projects. This tax, authorized by the state legislature and approved by the Salt Lake County Council, is expected to generate significant revenue for local infrastructure improvements.

The council anticipates that Millcreek will receive approximately $750,000 annually from this tax, although initial distributions will only cover half of that amount for the current fiscal year. City officials emphasized a cautious approach to budgeting, opting not to include these funds in the budget until more concrete figures are available. This decision aims to avoid potential shortfalls if the actual revenue falls below expectations.

The funds generated from this sales tax are earmarked specifically for transportation-related projects, which can include road maintenance, construction, and potentially enhancements to public transit facilities, such as bus shelters. However, the funds cannot be used for non-transportation projects, such as sidewalks.

Additionally, the council discussed the issuance of bonds to finance the completion of the East Mill Creek Common project, with a total of $24 million allocated for construction. This funding is crucial for advancing local development initiatives and improving community infrastructure.

Overall, the discussions highlighted the city's strategic planning in managing new revenue streams while ensuring that funds are allocated effectively to meet the community's transportation needs. As the council prepares for the implementation of this tax, they will continue to monitor its impact on the budget and the potential for enhancing Millcreek's transportation infrastructure.