The City Administration and staff cannot support any position on any ballot measure. At the February 7, 2023, City Council meeting, the Council voted 4-1 in favor of placing a proposed amendment to dedicate most Food and Beverage Tax revenues received to purposes currently in Parks and Recreation (see below) and extend the sunset date from 2030 to 2040.
The measure poses the question, “Shall the City of Ashland ordinance be amended to dedicate revenues to City parks, open space, recreation and senior service purposes?”
A "Yes" vote for this measure authorizes the City of Ashland to use the Food and Beverage Tax for City parks, open spaces, recreation and senior service purposes as follows, consistent with City policies and practices: twenty-five percent (25%) for capital expenses including acquisition, planning, development, repair, and rehabilitation; seventy-three percent (73%) for operations, maintenance or capital expenses. Two percent (2%) of the tax will be used for administration of the tax. *
The tax rate will remain unchanged at 5%, and any increase to the tax rate or change of its use will require voter approval. The expiration date of the tax will be December 31, 2040.
A "No" vote means the existing Food and Beverage Tax allocation will stay the same, with tax revenues going toward park capital expenses (not less than 25%), street repair debt or parks capital expenses (up to 73%), and tax administration (2%).
*With a “yes” vote, the City’s street repair debt will primarily be funded through franchise fees.
Check out all of the
May 16, 2023 Special Election Measures.
Note: Any statements made by City staff that could be construed as support for this measure, would have been made prior to Council approval of the proposed amendment for the May 16, 2023, Special Called Election. City Administration or staff cannot support any position on any ballot measure.
Released April 26, 2023