Galesburg Aldermen are set on Monday to discuss an increase in the home rule sales tax but are already showing some differences of opinion.
The increase would see this part of the local sales tax go from 1% to 1.25%, generating an estimated $950,000 in additional revenue annually.
Some of the revenue would be used to pay the principal and interest for bonds the council has plans on issuing next year, one for a community center, and the other for city infrastructure.
Alderwoman Jaclyn Smith-Esters says she will be a yes vote.
She says the rate would put Galesburg close to about 47 other similar communities.
Smith-Esters says she wants Galesburg to continue to grow and to “do that we need to maintain what we have and invest in the future.”
She points out that purchases under a dollar would see no increase and every $100 spent would only see a quarter more paid in tax.
Smith-Esters says she’s confident the public supports the tax increase because of numbers provided in a community survey that says 62 percent think a community center should be a priority.
The survey however didn’t ask any questions about raising taxes to support a community center. The survey showed improving city streets was the community’s top priority, which is why the tax increase would partially support infrastructure improvements.
Alderman Larry Cox says he won’t support the tax increase because there are too many unknowns about bonds and a proposed community center.
Cox says he believes we can “provide for the needs of the community by spending less”, citing a need to partner with entities like the YMCA, District 205, and local churches.
Alderman Bradley Hix says he will vote no on the rate increase.
Hix says worries the cost of asbestos and mold remediation in the Churchill Junior High Building could drive costs higher than the current estimated $7.5 million.
Hix points out that there’s no current estimate on the Community Center’s operating costs.
Alderman Wayne Dennis also plans to be a no-vote, saying that he feels that businesses and residents are already overtaxed, citing taxes on food, gaming machines, and hotels.
Council members Sarah Davis and Kevin Wallace didn’t respond to a WGIL email seeking comment. Council member Dwight White responded only to clarify what additional revenue would be used for.
Aldermen will have the tax increase on first reading Monday and are expected to vote on Dec. 19th.
