Jefferson council adopts resolution opposing Initiated Measure 28, cites $4,000 local revenue risk

The Jefferson City Council adopted Resolution #2024-R02 on Aug. 5, 2024, opposing Initiated Measure 28, a proposed constitutional amendment certified for the November 2024 ballot. The resolution says the measure would "remove state, municipal and tribal taxes on all items sold for human consumption except alcohol and prepared food," cites potential conflicts with state law, and references SDCL 34-45-1(7) and SDCL 10-52-2. The resolution notes Jefferson collected $190,241.74 in sales tax in fiscal 2023 and $119,910.06 year-to-date in 2024 and estimates an annual loss to the city of roughly $4,000 if the measure passes.

Councilmember M. LaFleur moved the resolution and Councilmember M. Stokely seconded; the motion carried. The resolution text included the council's finding that "Initiated Measure 28 would negatively impact our community and its residents." The council did not take further legislative action beyond adopting the resolution; next steps on advocacy or communication were not specified in the minutes.