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Council delays decision on new 0.1% sales tax for public defense pending diversion analysis
Summary
Staff briefed council on House Bill 2015 and the new local 0.1% sales tax authorized for criminal‑justice uses, including public defense. Council asked to defer an October ordinance so staff can review diversion measures and other cost options before committing.
City staff outlined how House Bill 2015 allows cities to adopt a locally imposed 0.1% sales and use tax to support criminal justice purposes, including public defense. The council heard an analysis showing the revenue would cover near‑term contract costs for Lakewood’s primary public‑defense contractor but would fall short of projected longer‑term costs under reduced misdemeanor caseload standards.
“Mister mayor, members of the council, this new 0.1% sales tax can be used for a variety of criminal justice purposes to include public defense,” Deputy…
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