The Cole County Commission voted Jan. 8 to approve a resolution to place a 10-year countywide sales tax renewal for capital improvements on the April ballot. The action is a procedural step to authorize submission of the renewal to voters.

Commissioners said the renewal would be for a 10-year period. Staff described the step as the first in the process to get the question on the April ballot and noted that materials and committee organization are in place to start outreach. Commissioners and committee members named in the meeting include Brad Bates (longtime committee member), Logan Grama (newcomer), Sharon Knott (co-chair) and Clay Groton (marketing lead).

A speaker during discussion described the county sales tax as "the lifeblood" of county improvements, and commissioners thanked department heads for positive public responses to presentations. The commission moved to approve the resolution, the motion was seconded and the board voted 'Aye.'

Next steps: staff will complete required ballot paperwork and the county will proceed with outreach ahead of the April election.