Another local Alabama tax hike proposal defeated, anti-tax sentiment builds

SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — Yet another tax increase proposal was defeated in Jackson County, Alabama, Tuesday, with around 60 percent of voters rejecting the 1-cent sales tax increase.

With a final vote of 3,947 to 2,622, organizers against the tax say it is yet another reminder that Alabamians do not want higher taxes.

Jackson County officials, however, say that the vote means services will be cut.

“We as a commission will now administer, and do our best to do what we need to do to make even further cuts, and stay within our budget, that’s what the citizens have asked for, and that is what we will do,” said Jackson County Commission Chair Matthew Hodges.

Jackson County is the third area this year to reject a significant tax increase referendum, momentum tax hike opponents say is indicative of the state’s attitude as a whole.

“The resounding defeat of the tax increase in Jackson County last night is another victory by hardworking Alabamian voters and conservative grassroots activists over big government solutions to our budget problems,” said Stop the Jackson County Grocery Tax campaign manager Trey Edwards.

Edwards told Yellowhammer he believes Jackson County’s fiscal issues are in many ways a microcosm of the budget issues the state faces.

“Despite drastic cutbacks in recent years, the county still faces a significant deficit and will have to make large cuts in order to move forward,” he explained. “However, once again the people have spoken: tax increases will NOT be considered as a solution to this problem.

“When we, as individuals, businesses and families, face budget problems, we have to cut costs and/or work harder. We can’t force other people to give us their money. Oftentimes, the cuts we have to make are severe. In times of crisis, even some items previously seen as essential must be re-thought. This is not something anyone wants to do, but it is the responsible thing to do. This is the definition of the phrase ‘living within our means.’”

Meanwhile, two counties over in Athens, the debate over a 12-mils property tax hike—a 120 percent increase from the city’s current rate—has heated up after allegations that Athens School Superintendent Trey Holladay improperly used his position and school resources to advocate for the proposed tax hike.

Note: Mill rates are used to measure the amount of property taxes owed. For a more in-depth explanation, go here.

According to Stop the Small Business Tax PAC, who is fighting the tax says “I’m Voting Yes” signs, both large and small have been placed at schools across the City of Athens. Further, the group says superintendent Holladay made a “campaign speech” at a mandatory Freshman Orientation meeting at Athens High School.

The group says Holladay’s speech is a violation of an Alabama law which prohibits public employees from using state, county, and local funds, property, or time, for any political activities. Perhaps more seriously is the allegation that the superintendent’s speech was a violation of another law barring public employees from using their official authority or position for the purpose of influencing votes or political actions.

“I am truly saddened and disappointed by the actions of City School Officials,” said Stop the Small Business Tax PAC chairman John Wahl. “School resources being used to campaign for a tax increase is bad enough, but to partner with a Special Interest group is simply unbelievable. There are taxpaying voters on both sides of this issue. I don’t see how anyone could think it’s okay to use taxpayer money to support one side or the other.

“This is disrespectful to the citizens of Athens, the voters, and especially the parents and children going to these schools every day. Using kids as a campaign tool is shameful. Government is supposed to treat each side of a political issue fairly and equally. What kind of example does this set for our children?”

The Athens City property tax vote will take place on Tuesday, August 25th.