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Ruston holds first reading of proposed 0.1% public safety sales tax to qualify for grants
Summary
Council held a first reading of Ordinance 1693, which would impose a 0.1% sales and use tax for criminal justice purposes under ESHB 20151; staff estimated about $50,000 per year in revenue and noted the city could apply for a $125,000 grant if it meets CJTC requirements.
Ruston City Council held the first reading of Ordinance 1693 on March 3, 2026, which would impose a one‑tenth of one percent (0.1%) public safety sales and use tax authorized by ESHB 20151. Staff explained the tax would only be available if the city meets Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) grant-qualification requirements and that revenues could begin July 1, 2026 if statutory notice timelines are met. The staff estimate in the packet projected roughly $50,000 per year in local revenue and indicated Ruston could apply for a $125,000 public-safety grant if it meets the program requirements.
Councilmember Hedrick said he supported moving forward to access grant funding. Councilmember Wilson identified drafting errors in the ordinance and asked staff to confirm the city's readiness to meet CJTC requirements. Chief Bautista clarified the ordinance contains both a tax and a grant component, noted some compliance steps (including Trauma Informed Care training) must be completed for full eligibility, and said potential uses of tax/grant funds could include hiring an additional police officer or a civilian outreach position. He also said Ruston may need to collaborate with neighboring agencies to implement behavioral-health response programs.
