Vote ‘yes’ on sales tax for school facilities
A 1 percent school facilities sales tax is on the ballot. It is a “non-property tax” way to provide money to schools in Lee County. I will vote yes. I’d like to express my opinions on a few of the reasons I believe this is a good thing.
Instead of increasing property taxes, schools on a county-wide basis (Amboy, Ashton-Franklin Center, Paw Paw and Nelson), can get funds that follow their students from sales tax paid anywhere in Lee County.
Estimates show Paw Paw would get $137,000 per year, AFC $269,000, Amboy $416,000, and Dixon Public Schools $1,220,000. Each school district can have those funds to use as needed for their buildings.
Money wouldn’t come from property taxes, and lots of it would come from people who don’t even live here. Visitors would be leaving behind a gift for us every time they make a purchase.
For people who have a hard time making ends meet, the law does not tax rent, buying a home, groceries, licensed/titled vehicles, prescriptions, medical equipment, services, etc. Most essential needs would not be taxed.
Let’s join other counties, who have already passed this, for money to support our schools. I’m sorry that Illinois doesn’t allow the money to be spent for teachers and smaller classes. These dollars can be spent only for facilities, but future costs for buildings will continue, so I’m for taking advantage of this opportunity now.
Please join me and vote yes. It’s time.
