Florence council authorizes notice and outreach for potential sales-tax increase, schedules March public hearing

The Florence Town Council authorized staff to post a Notice of Intent and schedule a public hearing for March 17, 2026 to consider a possible sales-tax rate increase, should the council later choose to pursue changes. Finance staff (Carl) said the posting is required to show the maximum amount that could be considered and explained a 70-day notice timeline; if council moves forward, any approved rate change would take effect July 1, 2026.

Multiple council members stressed that tonight's action only authorizes public notice and is not a vote on the tax change. Vice Mayor Adam said: "We are not voting on the actual increase tonight." The council outlined plans for additional budget work sessions and public outreach to explain options and impacts to residents before any final vote.

Council voted to authorize staff to post the notice and schedule the hearing. The motion passed on a voice vote with no recorded opposition.