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Commission tables pursuit of November ballot renewal for road & bridge sales tax
Summary
Public Works asked about whether a 0.2¢ road and bridge sales‑tax renewal could go on the November ballot; commissioners requested legal research on statutory deadlines and elected to table pursuit so staff and counsel can prepare more information.
John Ellerman, Public Works director, told the board the county’s temporary 0.2¢ sales tax for road and bridge projects expires next year and Department of Revenue timelines may require an earlier ballot action if the county intends to have collections continue without a gap. Ellerman asked whether the county could put a renewal on the November ballot.
Commissioners and counsel discussed statutory increments, precedent AG opinions and the practical challenge of educating voters and coordinating multiple ballot measures. One commissioner said the timing and outreach would make a November placement difficult and advised aiming for next year; staff said a one‑year gap in collections would be manageable but that the board should expect some delay in project starts if collections pause.
After discussion, a commissioner moved to table pursuit of placing a renewal on the November ballot to allow counsel and staff time to research statutory requirements, deadlines and ballot logistics; the motion carried.
