Coming up on the Nov. 8 ballot, Strafford citizens will be asked to vote on a 3/4th cent sales tax. Marshfield Mail reached out to Strafford City Administrator Martha Smartt to learn more about the proposed tax and its intentions.
What will the tax be used for?
Smartt: The three-quarter cent sales tax is a dedicated funding source for law enforcement. Specifically for the Strafford police department staff and operations.
Why the police?
Smartt: Historically, we have funded seven officers in our jurisdiction. But that's becoming increasingly more and more difficult to the point that in the last 18 months, we have lost outstanding officers to better-paying jobs, whether it's another law enforcement or otherwise.
What steps has the city taken?
Smartt: We have adjusted our pay scale several times over the last 18 months. We thought we were being competitive with similar-sized jurisdictions in our region. But we found that we have been falling farther and farther behind. We have made adjustments but are now at a point it is not sustainable for us to continue making such adjustments.
How are the police getting paid currently?
Smartt: Through our General Funds account, though they are not the only ones funded by this account. Two of the primary users are the police and the streets department.
What is the goal?
Smartt: We have seven positions budgeted and have vacancies because we can not fill them at the rate of pay, nor do our funding levels are not sustainable to be competitive year after year.
If it passes, what would get taxed?
It would tax eligible retail sales. So if you go to your grocery store or a restaurant, that is where citizens will see the sales tax. One thing to clarify is this would not be applied to gasoline sales. This would be a tax on retail sales, not fuel.
When would citizens start seeing the tax?
Smartt: Early 2023
If this does not pass, what is the alternative?
Smartt: We (the city) would have to look at our resources, and the board of aldermen would need to decide how different needs depend on general revenue. Prioritize the need for public safety if that is to be the priority to be funded at a higher level. The streets department uses the general funds, which means repairs and improvements to roads would have to be reduced, or their maintenance would be slower.
Where can people learn more?
Smartt: We will have town hall meetings scheduled for the following days:
Thursday, Oct 20, 6:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct 22, 10:00 a.m.
Thursday, Oct 27, 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov 1, 7:00 a.m.
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