Title:
Dedicated Sales Tax for Arts & Culture and Other Uses
Summary
ACTION:
1) Discuss recommended revenue allocation/distribution and various governance models associated with a proposed increase in the local sales tax by a quarter (ΒΌ) cents to fund arts and culture, as well as, other County uses; and
2) Direct staff to take the appropriate steps and report back at the July 2, 2019 meeting in order for the Board to take action on whether to place the matter on the November 5, 2019 ballot
Commission/Staff Contact: George Dunlap, Chair / Dena R. Diorio, County Manager
Presentation: Yes (Verbal)
BACKGROUND/JUSTIFICATION:
The Board is being asked to consider placing a referendum on the November 5, 2019 ballot to levy an additional quarter cents sales tax to fund arts and culture, as well as, other County uses. The sales tax would generate approximately $50 million per year. The Board will have to determine which governance model will best manage the revenues as well as provide transparency and control over the dollars.
On February 12, 2019, the Board of County Commissioners received a report from the Arts and Science Council (ASC) proposing that the County consider placing a referendum on the ballot to levy an additional quarter cents sales tax. The ASC proposed that $20 million of the estimated $50 million, be allocated to funding arts and cultural programs and the remainder allocated to other County purposes. To gauge community sentiment for the proposal, the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance Foundation contracted with Well World Solutions to poll County residents.
On April 16, 2019, the Board received as information, the results of the poll by Well World Solutions. No action was taken or required at that time.
On June 18, 2019, the matter was placed on the Board's agenda for further discussion. The matter was discussed and the Board decided to continue the discussion at its June 25, 2019 Budget/Public Policy meeting.
On July 2, 201...
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