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Staff flags sales tax outlook and potential mail ballot for dedicated sales tax
Summary
Officials said sales-tax receipts are projected to exceed 2026 targets, projected 2027–2031 growth is about 2.7%, and staff flagged a potential dedicated sales-tax mail ballot election in March 2027, noting any proceeds would not be available until late 2027/2028.
At the Committee of the Whole, staff reported sales tax revenues are outperforming projections for 2026 and estimated five‑year sales tax growth of roughly 2.7%, aligned with anticipated inflation. Laurie told council members staff view sales-tax volatility as a planning risk but also an opportunity for additional revenue if the council pursues a dedicated sales tax.
"Given that...sales taxes are volatile, this is a great position to be in," Laurie said. She added that if the council chooses to pursue a dedicated sales tax via a mail ballot election, action would be required this calendar year to appear on a March 2027 mail ballot and, if successful, the earliest returns would start in October 2027 and be available quarterly into 2028.
