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Swisher council sets March 4, 2025 special election for 1% local-option sales tax
Summary
The council approved resolutions to place a 1% local-option sales tax question on a March 4, 2025 special election ballot, noting state timelines, that 50% must provide property-tax relief and the remainder will be earmarked for city purposes if voters approve.
The Swisher City Council voted Oct. 14 to set a special election for March 4, 2025, to ask voters whether to impose a 1% local-option sales tax for the city.
Mayor (presiding) explained state timing rules for special elections and the proposed use of proceeds: "50% must be used for property-tax relief, and the other 50% must be purposed by the city council," the mayor said. The council's draft ballot wording lists allowable uses for the city's share including public safety, parks and recreation, public infrastructure and economic development.
Council members discussed the cost of holding a special election (the mayor said he had a note indicating roughly $1,700) and the 90-day filing and notice deadlines the county requires. The mayor also told the council the tax currently supplies roughly one-third of the city's budget and estimated revenue of approximately $200,000 a year into the general fund, making the question financially significant for the coming budget season.
Council approved Resolution 69 (setting the special-election date) and Resolution 70 (placing the 1% tax proposition on the ballot and specifying the uses) by roll-call vote. If voters approve the tax, the city would begin collecting its portion on July 1, 2025, consistent with the timeline discussed.
Next steps: staff will finalize ballot language, meet county deadlines for the special election and prepare outreach so council members can explain the measure to residents ahead of the vote.
