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City of Atascadero wants public input for new tax measure

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The City of Atascadero passed a 1% sales tax increase on the November ballot, pushing the tax to 8.75%. Now, the city is asking for residents’ input on what to use that revenue for.

The city is hosting virtual meetings via Zoom to hear how residents want the money utilized. The city estimates the tax hike will generate $4.5 million annually.

Public safety and infrastructure were two main needs the city saw after receiving details from a community outreach survey in 2019 and 2020. In total, 10 virtual meetings will be held, including the next one on Saturday at 10 a.m.

“This is an opportunity for the public to provide input on goals, priorities, and expectations for how we’re going to be investing these funds for the future of Atascadero,” said Atascadero Mayor, Heather Moreno. “It’s really easy to tune in, and it’s not intimidating. I’m saying this because I heard it from people who attended. They’re saying, ‘I’m so glad I came. It was so easy to talk and provide my input.’ They felt very comfortable.”

City staff will gather the input, and through a series of public meetings from February to April, the council will incorporate the approved action plan into the 2021-2023 budget. For more information on the virtual meetings and how to provide input, click here.