Sales Tax Fight

Early voting continues this week as proponents and opponents of a street tax, set to expire in 2029, rally their bases to advocate for what they believe is best for the city of Monroe. Some might liken the call for repealing the tax to “throwing out the baby and keeping the bathwater,” when, in reality, it’s about changing the water and keeping the baby. In other words, there is nothing inherently wrong with the tax itself, but it has strayed from its original intent and needs adjustment.

What began as a tax dedicated solely to street repairs has evolved into a "free-for-all" for city officials, used to fund various projects and services, regardless of their relation to streets. Instead of proposing additional taxes, which officials knew voters would likely reject, the city has shifted to reallocating this existing tax—a case of "robbing Peter to pay Paul." The blame lies partly with government officials who have long convinced voters that taxes are not the solution and that government is too large. As a result, passing new tax proposals has become nearly impossible, with one side always claiming that taxes unfairly burden the "little man."

Now, city officials aim to continue diverting funds from the street repair tax, viewing it as a convenient source of revenue already in place. Proponents argue for rewriting the tax to allocate funds specifically for streets, building projects, and economic development. Opponents, however, resist a permanent tax, fearing it would provide an unchecked revenue stream for the administration to use at its discretion—potentially neglecting underserved citizens. The debate underscores the importance of ensuring voter oversight and transparency in how funds are used. With the current tax not set to expire until 2029, voters must decide if changes to its purpose justify early action. Make your voice heard on December 7.