Apache Junction Roadway Improvements Funded Through Sales Tax Increase
During the December 2 Apache Junction City Council meeting, Ordinance 1406 was passed on a 5-2 vote. The Ordinance amends the current city tax code, increasing the city sales tax rate from two and two-tenths percent (2.2%) to two and four-tenths percent (2.4%). The increase will go into effect on March 1, 2015 and will end (sunset) in ten years.
All funds generated from the increase will go directly to pay for roadway maintenance and improvements. Historically funded solely through Highway User Revenue Fees (HURF), the roadway maintenance fund for Apache Junction has dramatically decreased over the past several years. HURF comes from the gas tax which is collected by the state. In addition to the state sweeping HURF monies designated for cities and towns, Apache Junction’s proportion has decreased due to census data and the volume of gasoline purchased has also decreased.
Apache Trail will be the first project funded by the sales tax increase. Apache Trail will be repaved from Idaho Road to Meridian Road and construction will take place during the summer of 2015.
For more information, please contact Apache Junction’s Public Information & Marketing Communications Specialist at (480) 474 – 5080 or chalonen@ajcity.net.
