Westminster Considers 0.4% Sales Tax Increase to Fund Fire Department Needs

On July 25, 2025, Westminster City Council convened a Town Hall and Open House to discuss critical funding needs for the city's fire department and neighborhood streets. The meeting highlighted the community's strong stance against property tax increases while showing a willingness to consider a sales tax increase to support essential services.

Last year, the city proposed a 0.5% sales tax increase specifically for fire department needs, but the community overwhelmingly rejected the idea, expressing concerns about the city's financial management. In response, city officials engaged residents to explore alternative funding sources. A recent poll indicated that only 7% of respondents would support a property tax increase, while two-thirds expressed openness to a sales tax hike if the city demonstrated fiscal responsibility.

City leaders are now considering a 0.4% sales tax increase, which would raise the total sales tax rate to 4.25%. This increase would cost an average family of four approximately $10 a month and is intended to fund a new central fire station, staffing for two fire stations, and $2 million annually for neighborhood street repairs. The proposed tax would not cover administrative costs or the rehabilitation of existing fire stations, which will be addressed through existing resources.

The meeting also emphasized the importance of community engagement and transparency. Residents voiced the need for clear communication regarding how tax revenues would be allocated, the condition of existing fire stations, and the implications for public safety. City officials acknowledged the necessity of educating the public about the benefits of the proposed tax increase and the urgency of addressing fire and emergency service needs.

As the city moves forward, officials plan to gather feedback from the community through small group discussions and surveys. The outcome of these discussions will inform the next steps in potentially placing the sales tax measure on the ballot. The council's commitment to involving residents in the decision-making process reflects a broader trend in local governance, where community input is increasingly prioritized in shaping public policy.