Voter Guide

Simple majority required.Ballot wording: Shall the City of O'Fallon, Missouri, impose a sales tax of three-eighths of one percent (3/8%) for economic development purposes, including but not limited to street and utility improvements, facilities directly related to job creation, and other eligible projects that promote private investment, new employment, and economic vitality, for a period not to exceed twenty-five (25) years?Summary: The measure would authorize the city to increase the sales tax by three eighths of a cent to generate revenue for economic development projects. The overall sales tax rate in the city would increase to 8.325 cents from 7.95 cents. The tax hike, which would expire in 2051, would raise about $6.76 million a year. The measure would require 20% to be used on long-term projects, land allocation and infrastructure including a $3 million to $4 million water tower near the Hoff Road industrial area. Supporters say the funds would pay for infrastructure investment to help attract projects such as manufacturing facilities. Opponents say the new tax is unnecessary and would burden taxpayers when the city could pay for projects with existing resources.