Claiborne County commission votes 11-9 to place $71 wheel tax referendum on March ballot

The Claiborne County Commission voted 11-9 on Nov. 20 to call a referendum asking voters whether to levy a county-wide $71 motor-vehicle privilege tax, commonly called a “wheel tax.” Commissioner Whitt Shuford moved the resolution and Commissioner Dennis Cook seconded it; the roll-call vote was recorded in the minutes.

The resolution states the $71 tax would be collected by the County Clerk at the same time as state registration taxes and that proceeds would be deposited in the county general fund. The text of the resolution says the tax is intended to reduce the county’s property tax rate by $0.30 per assessment (from $2.30 to $2.00 per $100 assessed) if approved by voters.

County officials recorded stipulations about administration in the resolution: decals and receipts would be issued by the County Clerk, the County Clerk may deduct an authorized collection fee, and the measure would take effect for collection the month after a voter approval. The resolution also instructs the county election commission to place the question on the March ballot and says the cost of the election will be paid by Claiborne County.

Supporters argued the measure would provide a dedicated revenue stream and lower property tax rates; opponents were recorded in the roll call as nine voting against the call for a referendum. The minutes do not record extended debate on the floor or specific statements from proponents and opponents beyond the recorded motions.

Next steps: following the Nov. 20 vote, the county election commission will schedule the referendum as provided by the resolution. If a majority of voters approve the measure at that election, the county’s collection schedule will begin the following month as described in the resolution.