ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – The St. Johns County Board of Commissioners read through an official proposal Tuesday afternoon, which, if passed, would increase the county’s sales tax rate by one percent for at least the next ten years.
The revenue generated would be used to help the county improve roads, bridges, public safety and parks to account for the massive influx in population.
The county currently has approximately $500 million in total infrastructure needs:
- $243 million is needed for roads, bridges and transportation infrastructure projects
- $120 million for public safety enhancements, including police, fire and rescue
- $88 million is needed for five parks
- $49 million is needed for public libraries
The measure would move the county sales tax from 6.5 to 7.5 cents.
Voters would need to approve the tax increase before its imposed. If the commissioner approves of the measure, it will be placed on the Nov. 8 ballot.
- March 1, 2022: First Reading
- March 15, 2022: Second Reading, Vote
- November 8, 2022 (midterm elections): Voters approve or reject the tax increase
- January 1, 2023: Tax increase takes effect (if approved on Nov. 8)