Fort Collins Ballot Question 2A: What You Need to Know
What is Ballot Question 2A?
Ballot Question 2A is a referendum in the city of Fort Collins, Colorado, asking residents to vote on whether they want to approve a special tax to fund affordable housing projects. If approved, the measure would impose a 0.15% sales tax increase within the city, generating an estimated $9.25 million over the next five years, which would be allocated to building and maintaining affordable housing. The tax would be in effect from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2028.
What is Affordable Housing?
Affordable housing is housing that is considered to be affordable to people who are on low or moderate incomes. This generally means housing that costs no more than 30% of a household's income, including rent and utilities. Affordable housing is important to cities and towns because it helps to ensure that people of all income levels can find a place to live.
Why is Affordable Housing Important?
Affordable housing is important for a number of reasons. First, it allows people on lower incomes to have access to safe, secure housing. Without affordable housing, these individuals and families may be unable to find a place to live and may be at risk of homelessness. Second, affordable housing helps to reduce poverty, which is beneficial for the entire community. Finally, affordable housing can help to reduce the cost of living, making it easier for people to live and work in a city.
What Would the Tax Increase Fund?
The tax increase generated by Ballot Question 2A would fund a variety of affordable housing projects. These include the construction of new affordable housing units, the rehabilitation of existing housing, and the preservation of existing affordable housing. Additionally, the funds would be used to support programs that assist homeless individuals and families, as well as services that promote housing stability.
Who Would Pay the Tax Increase?
The 0.15% sales tax increase would be paid by anyone who makes a purchase within the city of Fort Collins. This includes residents, visitors, and businesses. The tax increase would be in effect from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2028.
What Are the Pros and Cons of the Tax Increase?
The pros of the tax increase include the fact that it would generate much-needed funds for affordable housing projects, which would help to reduce poverty and improve housing stability for low-income individuals and families. Additionally, the tax increase would be paid by a variety of people, which would spread the burden of the cost of the projects. The cons of the tax increase include the fact that it would increase the cost of living for everyone in the city and would place an additional burden on businesses, which could lead to job losses.
Should I Vote Yes or No?
The decision whether or not to vote yes or no on Ballot Question 2A is a personal one that should be made by each voter. It is important to consider the pros and cons of the tax increase as well as how it would affect you and your community. Ultimately, it is up to each voter to decide whether or not they think the tax increase is worth it.
Conclusion
Ballot Question 2A is a referendum in the city of Fort Collins, Colorado, that would impose a 0.15% sales tax increase to fund affordable housing projects. It is important for voters to consider the pros and cons of the measure before deciding whether or not to vote yes or no. Ultimately, it is up to each voter to decide whether or not they think the tax increase is worth it.