Quarter-cent sales tax increase on November ballot

On Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 8, registered voters in Orange County will have the opportunity to vote for or against the quarter-cent sales and use tax. If approved, every $100 spent by shoppers in Orange County will generate 25 cents for education and economic development. Around $2.5 million would be generated in one year based on current projections. The proposed sales tax would not apply to groceries, gasoline and prescription medicines.

If approved, one half of the revenues will be distributed to county and city schools on a per pupil basis for facility improvement of older schools and the purchase of technology. The other half of the revenues will help grow business through a sustainable and well-managed economic development plan that fits the unique and diverse Orange County community. The blueprint for attracting and expanding strong business in Orange County would include funds for entrepreneurs, small business loans, innovation centers for new businesses and support for agriculture businesses. Funds will also be used to improve vital county infrastructure that underpin a robust business environment such as utilities, water and sewer. The focus on directing funds for schools and jobs is a 10-year commitment by the Orange County Commissioners.

The proposed sales tax would apply to people who shop in Orange County including visitors, tourists and temporary residents. Annually, visitors to Orange County generate nearly 20 percent of the sales tax revenue. The proposed sales tax will help diversify the tax base and share some of the tax burden currently shouldered by home-owners paying property taxes. If approved, the quarter-cent sales tax is targeted to begin April 1, 2012.

The wording for the proposed quarter-cent sales tax on the Tuesday, Nov. 8, ballot will be: For or Against.
Local sales and use tax at the rate of one-quarter percent (0.25%) in addition to all other state and local sales and use taxes.

Voters are encouraged to learn more by going to the county website or calling the county office at 245-2307.

Stevens to seek fourth term

Hillsborough Mayor Tom Stevens last night confirmed he plans to seek a fourth term in office. Here's the release he later sent over (it's also posted on his website):

Dear Friends & Fellow Citizens,

It is a privilege to serve as Mayor of Hillsborough, and today I am announcing that I will run for a fourth term.

Six years ago, in my first campaign for elected office, I pledged “to be a passionate spokesperson for this town that is my home,” and to offer “strong leadership so our town board and citizens together can create a vision and action plan for Hillsborough’s future.”

I believe a widely shared vision for our town has emerged, a vision that emphasizes small-town character, celebrating our heritage, sustainable prosperity for folks from all walks of life. We enjoy a vitality and sense of community you can feel walking down the street. We are moving in the right direction. We are taking action to fulfill our vision, as evidenced by new parks, new businesses, and new ways of operating local government - all contributing to our quality of life. A steady stream of local, state, and national attention highlight great things that are “happening” in Hillsborough. Our small town gives us much to be proud of and enjoy.

While we can point to many achievements, we are also facing enormous challenges, as are most communities. In these current times, our resources are strained. More than ever, our decisions have far-reaching impact in shaping our quality of life both in the near future and for generations to come. We must rise to meet our challenges.

It takes many heads, hands, and hearts to preserve the Hillsborough we love while shaping the Hillsborough we envision. As your mayor, I will continue to be a passionate spokesperson for our town and community, and offer seasoned leadership aimed at bringing the efforts of many people together for the benefit of our town.

Tom Stevens

June 13, 2011