New Republic sales tax will be on ballot
The Republic Police Department, shown, is reportedly shorthanded thanks to Republic’s decade-plus of growth. The city claims the department hasn’t added any new police positions since 2006, and actually cut two positions in 2020 to address a regional pay deficiency.
The Republic Fire Department, Station 1 shown, will likely enhance coverage and response time if the tax passes, thanks to having more hands on deck. According to information provided by the city of Republic, in 2006, the Republic Fire Department responded to 1,226 calls for service, a number that ballooned to 2,309 by 2019. The department hasn’t added any new firefighter positions since 2007. (Photos by Ryan Squibb)
Republic City Council votes unanimously to let voters decide fate of public safety tax
A much discussed, potential 3/4 cent sales tax to benefit Republic police and fire departments has gained steam and will be sent to the ballot for voters to decide, likely in August.
After a lengthy discussion on the matter at the March 23 Republic City Council meeting, the second reading at the April 6 meeting went quickly, with all eight members of the council voting in favor of sending the issue ahead to be decided by Republic voters.
The tax, if passed by the electorate, would generate more than $2 million annually for the city, but could only be used on public safety, i.e. police and fire. City officials have said that, specifically, the funds would be used for hiring for new and sorely-needed positions, increasing pay for current positions and increasing retirement benefits, to stay competitive.
Although doubts were cast on the tax at the original reading by Council Member Eric Franklin, the Ward 1 representative voiced no such reservations the second go round.
In other action...
Also passing unanimously during the meeting, was an ordinance:
- Amending the municipal code on land use and zoning;
- Amending municipal code on planned development districts;
- Amending the municipal code and regulations regarding signs;
- Rezoning 8.44 acres from agricultural to general commercial at the southeast corner of State Highway MM and West Farm Road 148; Allowing the city to enter into an agreement with Berry Tractor for the purchase of a 2018 Komatsu excavator and a 2016 Komatsu dozer;
- Amending municipal code regarding purchasing and surplus property.
Greene County Collector speaks
In the early moments of the meeting, newly appointed Greene County Collector Allen Icet introduced himself to the board and distributed contact information to all members present, which was everyone minus Jennifer Mitchell, who joined online through Zoom.
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