Town Council approves crucial tax increase for public safety

The Appeals meeting held on September 9, 2024, commenced with a roll call confirming the attendance of Board Members Akia, Pappas, and Morks, while Board Members Bender and Self were absent. With both the chair and vice chair unavailable, Board Member Pappas was nominated and subsequently approved as Chair Pro Tem by a vote of 2-0.

The meeting proceeded with the confirmation that it complied with the Open Meetings Law, followed by the approval of minutes from the previous meeting, which passed unanimously with a 3-0 vote.

Town Council liaison Hollington provided updates, highlighting a significant development: the approval of a ballot measure for the upcoming November election. This measure proposes a 0.2% sales tax increase aimed at funding police and fire services, which includes plans to increase staffing by approximately 40 members in the future. Further details regarding this initiative are expected from Town Manager Dave Corless in subsequent discussions.