FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, July 31, 2008
Council to Consider Modernization of Utility Users’ Tax Ordinance
(Stockton, CA) – On Tuesday, August 5, 2008, the Stockton City Council will consider placing a measure on the November 2008 General Election ballot. The measure modernizes the City’s current Utility Users’ Tax ordinance.
“This is not a new tax and tax rates will not be increased,” said City Manager Gordon Palmer. “In fact, in recent years, the City voluntarily reduced this tax from 8 percent to the current 6 percent.”
The measure will ensure continuing revenues that support essential city services, such as 9-1-1, police and fire protection, street maintenance, parks, and libraries. Important programs and services that keep kids away from gangs and drugs, and vital services, such as graffiti removal, neighborhood policing, and youth recreation programs, are all funded by revenues from this source.
Stockton’s Utility Users’ Tax was established in 1969 and uses terminology associated with technology from that era. The same services are now provided using new technology, which is not defined in the current ordinance. As a result, the tax is not applied equally to all users. The goal is to treat all users of communications services equitably and fairly.
Stockton residents benefit directly from the money raised by Utility Users’ Tax. The City’s adopted budget assumes the continuance of this tax to provide critical services. Modernization of the ordinance will protect $11.65 million each year for essential services, during a time when the City faces serious financial challenges due to a sluggish economy.
For additional information, please contact the Connie Cochran, Public Information Officer, at (209) 937-8827.
###
|
Stockton,
CA 
Page
last updated
