By Staff Writer Daniel Locke
HELENAThe city of Helena may soon see an increase in sales tax.
On Monday, June 23, the Helena City Council held a first reading for a proposed sales tax hike during a regularly scheduled meeting. When the council reconvenes, there will be a vote and a time for public comment.
The city would raise its sales tax from 9% to 10%. The increase would be necessary to finance civic initiatives and assist the city stay up with nearby areas. The complete ordinance will be posted on Helena’s website.
During the pre-meeting work session, Council President Alice Lobell stated that our sales tax, which is currently at 9%, is going to increase to 10%. Every one of the nearby cities is at 10% and has been for some time. Alabaster, Pelham, and Hoover. Although it has been necessary for a very long time, we have managed to create a budget without it.
Andy Healy, a council member, stressed that the council has used this as a last resort.
Healy stated, “Rising taxes is the last thing you want to do on a city council; that’s never a goal in my agenda.”
Healy also described how the new municipal hall and sports complex would be funded using a quarter of the increase’s proceeds.
During the work session, the council was also scheduled to assess and discuss the new city hall project’s status; however, they chose to postpone this until their next meeting. Key players in the development process were unable to attend the meeting and provide the council with their updates, thus the discussion was postponed.
Declaring a temporary prohibition on retailers who sell or plan to sell hemp or vape products was another business. The ordinance, which was approved, aims to prevent minors from obtaining these products.
Police Chief Mike Wood stated, “We just want to keep this stuff from getting in and getting to Helena’s kids.” That is essentially the purpose of this moratorium.
The council also recognized Ayden Allred’s Eagle Scout accomplishment. At the start of the gathering, Allred led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Council Member Hewy Woodman stated, “We are very excited because it’s very rare that we have someone in the community named an Eagle Scout.”
Other headlines included the first readings of eight annexation ordinances, the Helena Old Town Board’s message to the council, and the appointment of City Clerk Madison Harris as election manager.
On Monday, July 14 at Helena City Hall, the Helena City Council will hold its next scheduled meeting.
