Public Safety Half Cent Sales Tax Decision Moves to Voters

The City of Kearney Board of Alderman approved an ordinance to place Proposition A: “A Public Safety Tax,” on the April ballot for voters to decide. The proposition imposes a citywide sales tax of 1/2 of 1% for the purpose of improving public safety in Kearney.

“The thing that I think is important, is that it will not apply to utilities, gasoline, or prescription drug purchases,” said Thomas.

The Board of Alderman heard a presentation by Chief Mark Thomas at the January 6 city meeting. Chief Thomas’ presentation outlined why the police department was seeking a sales tax initiative, who would be taxed and what would be taxed.

Chief Thomas said additional funds would go to expanding the School Resource Officer program, enhancing officer safety and preparedness, upgrading department technology and facilities, and increasing support, education, and outreach for the community. If approved, funds would expand the number of school resource officers, fund a community outreach officer, provide for police training, upgrade equipment and technology, as well as ADA improvements and safety equipment for first responders.

If approved retailers will begin collecting the sales tax on October 1st, 2025, and the sales tax will have a sunset date in 25 years.

Chief Thomas noted two important parts of this initiative. Anyone who shops in Kearney, whether they are a resident or non-resident including interstate travelers, will pay the sales tax. Thomas also noted that the sales tax will not apply to certain items.

“The thing that I think is important, is that it will not apply to utilities, gasoline, or prescription drug purchases,” said Thomas. “That’s really important for our local residents I think.”

David Lehman also added that it was important to point out that this is not a property tax on residents and that non-residents would also be paying the sales tax: “The burden is not just on our residents. When you’ve got Starbucks right off the highway [and] you’ve got people coming off the highway who are going to pay this tax too.”

By law sales tax revenues must be spent to improve public safety within Kearney. It cannot be used for any other purpose. Residents of Kearney will have a chance to vote on this sales tax on the April 8, 2025, election ballot.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.