FRESNO (KMJ) — A proposed half-cent increase to sales tax in the City of Fresno is already being criticized by Fresno City Councilmembers, ahead of a pivotal vote required to move it forward.
Mayor Lee Brand publicly announced the revenue generating idea as part of a plan to bolster both public safety and bring in more money to the parks.
“With one-quarter-of-a-cent going to police and fire – public safety, and one-quarter going to parks. Those combined three departments represent around 70% of our general fund,” explained Brand on Monday (click here to read more).
It is estimated to bring in around $44 million annually over the course of 15 years. It needs the approval of Fresno City Council before it goes to the voters as part of the November ballot.
In a call to KMJ Tuesday morning, Councilman Steve Brandau condemned the idea.
“When I ran, I ran as a tax fighter…the people elected me because they know what I stand for and now it’s time for me to stand.”
Brandau said he is not the only one against it, explaining that District 7’s Clint Olivier is also not in support.
“I saw that Councilman [Garry] Bredefeld says that he’s not going to support it. Well there’s only four votes, this vote needs five.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen on Thursday…but right now, it doesn’t look good.”
Bredefeld wrote on Twitter “I will not support any tax increases-ever! We’re over-taxed from EVERY level of government.”
The debate is scheduled to start at 2pm inside Fresno’s Council Chamber at City Hall.
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
