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Copperton council approves Slavisa tax‑rate increase after split 3–2 vote
Summary
The council approved Resolution 2024‑12‑01 to adopt a 2025 tax rate in excess of the certified rate for Slavisa (a regional law‑enforcement funding entity). Council debate noted county action had already approved the change; the measure passed 3–2 in a roll call with Tessa and Kathleen opposed.
The Copperton Town Council voted 3–2 on Dec. 18 to approve Resolution 2024‑12‑01, a truth‑in‑taxation action to adopt a 2025 tax rate in excess of the certified rate for the Slavisa taxing entity, which funds regional law‑enforcement services.
Staff and board representatives explained that the requested increase is intended to cover rising law‑enforcement costs after the split between the county sheriff and the Unified Police Department. Council discussion emphasized two strains: operational cost pressures and constituent impacts. One councilor estimated the average household effect at roughly $5.44 per month (about $65 per year) for the Slavisa portion of the tax bill. "This would increase $5.44 a month," the mayor noted while reviewing the presented average‑property estimate.
Multiple councilors said the county council had already approved a similar truth‑in‑taxation action, which some members described as making the local vote largely symbolic. One councilor said Slavisa representatives went to the county to seek approval in advance; another acknowledged that, even so, the town should record its position. Tessa said she was troubled by raising the cap and urged diligence on behalf of constituents.
On roll call, Tessa voted 'Nay' and Kathleen recorded 'No'; David Olson and Kevin voted 'Yes' and the motion passed 3–2. Council members noted the county had already acted and that the local vote may be part of the multi‑entity approval process for Slavisa; staff and county representatives will proceed with the county public hearing scheduled the next day.
The approval places Copperton in alignment with the regional board's request; councilors asked to be kept apprised of how Slavisa will apply the additional revenue toward policing and operational needs.
