Big project could soon be underway after Ash Grove transportation tax continuation

The city of Ash Grove saw a continuation of its transportation tax passed by voters on Aug. 4. Ash Grove's transportation sales tax passed with a resounding 209 (75.2%) ballots marked yes. Only 69 votes against were counted.

The transportation tax accounts for an estimated $91,000 of revenue according to Mayor Caleb Smith, who has a project in mind to put that money to good use.

Smith said that leading up to the election, there were some misconceptions about continuing the tax that must be renewed every 10 years. 

He said that when he spoke to citizens, a common misunderstanding placed the issue as a tax increase, when that was never the case. A short blurb on KY3 reportedly exacerbated the issue because of its brevity. He and other city staff were able to smooth it over in the long run, however. 

“I mean, people [had] misunderstandings at first, but once we clarified, they realized it wasn’t a tax increase, just a continuation of the existing,” said Smith. “It was such a short blip on KY3 that that it kind of left some questions and confusion on it. Those people… reached out to the city and our city employees were well-informed.”

The tax typically goes to fund transportation improvements and maintenance according to Smith. He has another big project in mind for the town, though. 

Among other projects, the city wants to take a look at Tower Avenue and Exchange Avenue which, at current, floods any time the city receives substantial rainfall. This exact scenario occurred earlier this year, as, according to earlier reporting from the Commonwealth, multiple residents had to be evacuated and bused from their homes after a downpour flooded the area. 

“I know a couple of the concerns are on Tower and Exchange, it’s kind of a floodplain area,” said Smith.

The city could have more financial help to correct those streets said Smith, as officials are working with insurance after the previous flood. The streets could also be widened.

“We’re going to redo it to where it’s above the floodplain and actually help with the capacity of the floodplain area,” said Smith. “It’ll be so two full vehicles can cross and get through there.

The remaining money from the tax will be put toward maintaining the streets in town, per Smith.