Measure: 15-243 - Requiring Voter Approval for New or Increased Fee or Tax.

Summary

A “Yes” vote amends the Ashland Charter, Article IX, Special Powers of the Council, as follows: Section 8: Fees and Taxes: The City Council may propose new fees, taxes, or increase existing fees or taxes on a utility bill unrelated to the operation of the utilities. Notwithstanding any other provision, no such fee, tax, or increase, will be assessed, imposed, or collected on a utility bill until at least thirty (30) days following a positive vote to affirm by Ashland voters at the next regularly scheduled election. State and Federal taxes and fees are exempt. Franchise fees, increases to comply with State set minimums, and increases adjusting for inflation not exceeding the CPI-west, are exempt. This citizen-initiated measure would require voter approval before the City can implement new or increased utility bill fees or taxes unrelated to utility operations. The measure could delay, affect the timing and/or provision of City services. The practical or financial impacts of delays have not been evaluated or detailed. A “No” vote retains current Ashland Charter language.

Measure Details