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Swisher sets March 4, 2025 special election for 1% local-option sales tax; council approves ballot language
Summary
The council set a March 4, 2025 special election and approved wording for a 1% local-option sales tax; staff noted statutory deadlines and that 50% of the revenue must be used for property tax relief while the other half is for council‑designated city purposes.
The Swisher City Council voted on Oct. 14 to set a special election for March 4, 2025, to ask voters whether to adopt a 1% local-option sales tax for the city.
City staff explained that state law requires specific timing and county posting deadlines; the council selected the March election date to meet those requirements. The proposed ballot language specifies that 50% of revenue generated by the tax must be dedicated to property tax relief; the remaining 50% would be available for city uses such as public safety, parks and infrastructure unless the council specifies otherwise.
Staff told the council the revenue from the tax is a meaningful portion of the city's budget and estimated current receipts at roughly $20,000 a year, noting this figure as an estimate. Council members discussed the need to prepare information for voters in advance of the election and to coordinate messaging during the upcoming budget season.
The council approved two related resolutions: one setting the special election date and another approving the ballot wording. The motions carried on roll call votes.
