Ferguson City voters approved one of two Propositions on Tuesday, April 5, 2016. Proposition E, an Economic Development Sales Tax of a ½ cent received nearly 70% voter approval on Tuesday. Proposition E, received 68.99% voter approval which will generate $1,225,000 per year; of which $800,000 will be designated for general fund purposes, and $425,000 will be used for capital improvement purposes.
The sales tax will be used for business recruitment and retention, maintaining some city infrastructure (roads and buildings) and can be used to provide some police patrols in the business district.
“We knew going into this election, that it would be challenging to pass both Propositions," said Ferguson Mayor James Knowles III. "But, for our community to pass Proposition E with nearly 70% voter approval says our community is looking forward to moving forward. We still have a long road ahead of us, and we know the Council will have to make some tough decisions over the next few months when it comes to our budget. But we are a resilient community and we will continue to move forward,” added Knowles.
Proposition E - Results
Yes - For the measure 2,103 68.9%
No - Against the measure 951 31.1%
Proposition P, a property tax increase of .40 per $100 Assessed Value failed to receive the 66.67% approval needed to pass. A supermajority was required to pass the bond issue. If Proposition P passed, it would have generated $600,000 per year. Proposition P, would have been used for any general municipal purposes; police, fire, streets, and general government.
“Due to Proposition P not passing, we are going to take a look our budget very closely,” said Ferguson City Manager De’Carlon Seewood. “There may be some reduction in services but we do not believe there will be any major effects to the Consent Decree agreement, or our Community policing model. Overall, we are pleased with the momentum of voter turnout and their commitment to the community,” added Seewood.
Proposition P – Results (Supermajority needed to pass)
Yes - For the measure 1,729 56.8%
No - Against the measure 1,317 43.2%
The next Council meeting for the City of Ferguson is Tuesday, April 19, 2016.