Commission tables renewal of road & bridge sales tax pending legal review

Public Works staff briefed the commission on the county’s previous road and bridge sales tax history and Department of Revenue suggestions that an election this November might be required to avoid a lapse in collections at the start of 2028. The director said the 0.2¢ increment began in 2023 for a five‑year term and that timing issues mean the legal and administrative deadlines are tighter than the department anticipated.

Commissioners debated whether to pursue a renewal for the November ballot or wait until the 2027 election cycle to allow more time for legal review and public education. One commissioner emphasized the need to explain to voters how current revenues are being used; another said a one‑year gap in collections is manageable if necessary. After discussion the commission voted to table pursuit of the renewal and asked county counsel to research statutory requirements and earlier Attorney General opinions before bringing a recommendation back to the board.