GF may tap tax for quality of life projects

Grand Forks residents may get a chance in 2023 to vote on extending a 3/4 percent sales tax to help support quality of life projects in the city.

Those projects could include such things as a children’s museum…aquatics center…indoor turf…and destination playground.

The current 3/4 percent tax is being used to pay off Alerus Center bonds. It is scheduled to sunset in 2029.
A portion of any new tax could also be used for ongoing expenses at the events center building.

Mayor Brandon Bochenski says quality of life issues have been identified as a driving force to retain and attract workforce…new residents…and for economic development.  “Obviously we have to get some feedback.  Anytime you talk about taxes – we’re trying to cut taxes – a sales tax is a little more palatable.  In this case you are not raising it but keeping what’s existing.  It makes me uncomfortable to even talk about it.  You have some needs and really it’s a community decision.”

It’s estimated the tax generates around $9.5 million dollars each year.

The plan is still in the talking stages.  It was presented to a joint meeting of the Alerus Commission…City Council…and Park Board this afternoon (Wednesday).