Bladen County commissioners set May 18 work session to refine advisory referendum on 0.25% sales/use tax

Bladen County commissioners voted on May 5 to schedule a work session for 5:30 p.m. on May 18 to refine and consider a draft advisory referendum resolution asking whether voters support a 0.25% (quarter-cent) local sales and use tax under Article 46.

County staff told the board a draft resolution was provided in the packet and recommended directing the county clerk to update the language for submittal to the Board of Elections. Commissioners asked staff to prepare revenue-impact figures ahead of the May 18 session so the board could see estimated collections per $100 of taxable purchases.

During the discussion staff noted the proposed referendum would appear as a for/against question on the 2026 general-election ballot if the board proceeds. No final ballot language was adopted at the meeting; the board voted to hold the work session and requested specific numbers and materials to be available at that time.

A commissioner asked staff to provide the revenue estimates in writing prior to the work session; the board agreed to circulate the draft resolution for signatures so it could be forwarded promptly to state legislative contacts and the elections office if needed.