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Council votes to place ZAP sales-tax reauthorization on ballot; resolution approved
Summary
Councilors voted to put a previously adopted sales tax (commonly called the ZAP tax) back before voters; the tax generates about $48,000 annually and expires in September if not reauthorized.
The Gunnison City Council voted to place a measure on the ballot to reauthorize a sales tax originally adopted in 2013 (commonly referenced in council discussion as the “ZAP” tax).
Staff told the council the tax was adopted under enabling state legislation and is dedicated to recreation and arts uses; the tax currently generates roughly $48,000 a year for the recreation district. The tax expires in September unless the city reauthorizes its imposition.
Council action Councilman Anderson moved to place the tax question on the ballot; Councilman Childs seconded the motion. Council members recorded votes in favor (roll call recorded: Childs — yes; Quanah — yes; Crane — yes; Hill — yes; Anderson — yes). The clerk announced the motion carried.
Why it matters: reauthorizing the tax continues a dedicated revenue stream for recreation and related arts programming managed by the recreation district. Several councilmembers requested clearer language in the ballot and voter information materials to specify any percentage split between recreation and arts, and to clarify the tax name and ballot wording prior to printing the voter information pamphlet.
Next steps Staff said the question will be placed on the ballot; staff will work with the recreation district on any explanatory essays for the voter information pamphlet and will refine the resolution language to specify allocations between recreation and arts if required by council direction.
Ending The council approved the resolution to put the tax reauthorization on the ballot; specifics of the ballot language and any allocation between recreation and arts remain subject to staff drafting and further council review.
