It looks like Pevely City officials will ask voters on April 6, 2021, to approve a 1/2-cent sales tax to provide funding for stormwater and parks repairs and improvements.
On Monday, the Pevely Board of Aldermen gave a first reading of an ordinance to place the issue on the April ballot and then voted 6-0 to approve the reading.
The board is scheduled on Dec. 21 to give a second reading and final vote to approve the ordinance, City Administrator Nathan Schauf said.
The sales tax measure would require a simple majority to pass.
Pevely Mayor Stephanie Haas said the city currently must pay for stormwater and parks projects with general operating funds.
If the sales tax were approved, it would provide revenue for either stormwater or parks projects based on need, she said.
“It depends on the urgency,” Haas said. “The priority now is getting the stormwater system up to par. It’s something that definitely needs to pass for improvements of the infrastructure of the system.”
The city’s overall sales tax rate is 8.35 cents per $1 and would increase to 8.85 cents per $1 of the sales tax is approved.
Greg Shinn, the city’s accountant, said the sales tax would generate an estimated $360,000 per year.
Ward 1 Alderman Larry Coulson was absent from the meeting, and one board seat is vacant following the death of Ward 2 Alderwoman Linda Hahn on Oct. 26.
That seat will be filled in the April 6 election.