EGF still looking at sales tax referendum

Convergent NonProfit Solutions graphic

East Grand Forks officials may move forward with a one-percent sales tax “ask” of voters before launching a major fundraising campaign to help finance arena and park improvements.   That was one of the recommendations coming from consultants hired to study the feasibility of a fundraising campaign.

Andy Coe of Convergent NonProfit Solutions said the findings followed interviews with nearly 60 community and business leaders in East Grand Forks.    Coe says they did not find a lot of people who would be willing to be a major upfront donor to jumpstart the fund drive.  “A lot of people think you just go after people with money…but in fundraising having capacity is just part of the equation.  The sweet spot in fundraising is finding capacity and connection to the cause.”

Mayor Steve Gander says he likes the idea of working towards a sales tax plan before seeking private donations.

Coe says some of the takeaways from the interviews include:   90% are satisfied or very satisfied with park programs….72% feel the time is right for investments…and 84% would support a one-percent sales tax referendum as a funding mechanism.