EGF advances 1.25% sales tax plan

East Grand Forks (MN) voters are one step closer to deciding the fate of a 1.25% sales tax to help fund Park and Rec projects.

The city council endorsed the 30-year tax plan last night (Tuesday) and will now seek legislative approval to put the issue on the November ballot.  With growth the tax would raise $28.9 million dollars to renovate ice arenas and baseball facilities.

Mayor Steve Gander says he loves the project and what it means for the community – but it’s also a big ask of taxpayers.  “I do have a concern about the tax rate and term of it.  I guess I’ll leave it at that.  “I’ll have to decide depending upon how the vote goes how to proceed.”

Council member Dale Helms says doesn’t believe the project will bring as many people to East Grand Forks as supporters claim.  “We need to get some businesses…something to come here for…rather than just hockey and baseball.”

Council member Marc DeMers says the size of the project should give the council some hesitancy in voting – but it’s an impact statement.  “It’s a statement to the region that East Grand Forks is open for business.”

The council voted 5 to 2 in favor of the tax plan.