Villa Park board reallocates one-third of cannabis tax revenue to fund pool project
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Summary
On Feb. 23 the Village of Villa Park approved an ordinance allocating one-third of the village's 3% retailer's occupation tax on cannabis sales to the construction and operation of a new community swimming pool; trustees waived the first-reading requirement and voted to adopt the ordinance the same night.
The Village of Villa Park on Feb. 23 approved an ordinance to allocate one-third of the village's 3% tax on retail cannabis sales toward construction and operation of a new community swimming pool.
Manager Rivas presented the ordinance, which trustees sponsoring the measure said would codify how revenue from the existing 3% cannabis retailer tax is earmarked. "This is not a new tax," Rivas said, noting the item was a first reading unless the board waived that step.
Trustee Chistia Kumar said she is "absolutely in favor" and argued the allocation provides an initial funding stream for a project trustees have discussed for years. Trustee Constatos moved to waive the first-reading requirement and adopt the ordinance that evening; Trustee Sabri seconded. The roll-call vote showed a majority in favor and the measure advanced.
Trustees noted the one-third allocation is intended as a funding start and that additional funding sources or referenda may still be needed to complete the project. Several trustees and staff said they expect further planning and potential referendum discussions as design and cost estimates develop.
Outcome: motion to waive first reading and adopt the ordinance passed by roll call. The ordinance will codify the allocation of one-third of cannabis sales tax revenue to the pool fund and staff will proceed with next steps for budgeting and planning.
