Since 1989, the City of El Dorado has had a one-cent sales tax in place and it is time again this year for voters to consider approving the tax for another five years. Before the Sales Tax Task Force recommends language for the ballot question in November, the City of El Dorado is seeking input from residents on what they would like to see happen with the city’s sales tax.
Currently, the sales tax helps lower property tax by $1.65 million, provides $600,000 for street maintenance and $100,000 goes to economic development. Any funds in excess of these amounts are transferred to the Excess Sales Tax fund for special projects and initiatives as recommended by the Excess Sales Tax Committee.
The survey, which will continue through 5 p.m. Feb. 23, asks residents to provide their input on the current sales tax and possible changes. Citizens will be asked to rank government functions based on importance for the tax funding; possible changes to the tax allocations; extending the tax beyond five years; creating a general sales tax; and special sales tax options.
The sales tax survey results will go to the task force, then they will make a recommendation to the City Commission on the ballot question for the general election.
You can take the survey at Sales Tax Survey and there is more information on the sales tax at www.eldoks.com/sales_tax.