Citizens how purchase new automobiles will be charged a higher sales tax if they live in Fountain Valley. Photo by Jake Winkle.by Tejas Chadha, Staff Writer
April 1st marked the first day that Measure HH, a new sales tax that will continue for the next twenty years, took effect in Fountain Valley. Measure HH will raise the sales tax on items attached to one’s address by one percent such as cars and motorhomes. The money will be used for various city services such as funding for police and school programs.
The measure was voted on in the previous November election and was phrased as follows on the ballet:
“To maintain 911 emergency response times, fire stations, police officers/firefighters/paramedics, anti-gang/drug programs, after school, senior programs; upgrade first responder disaster communication; repair storm water systems to prevent flooding, streets/potholes/parks; other general city services, shall the City of Fountain Valley establish a one-cent sales tax providing $11.5 million annually for twenty year term, requiring public disclosure of expenditures, independent audits, all funds only for Fountain Valley?”
The measure was approved with almost 60 percent of Fountain Valley voters voting yes to the measure. As well as being approved by the city, the city council of Fountain Valley was heavily in favor of the measure because after the recession in 2008, the economy of Fountain Valley has been struggling.
The raise in a sales tax may make it pricier for students and for locals here in Fountain Valley, but is meant to provide funds for public services that go back to the citizens of FV.
The tax increase is estimated to bring in an additional 11.5 million dollars a year and will be used for paying off debts the city has collected and maintaining the city’s police station, fire station, schools, and other public services. The excess money will be used on projects and services that will be approved by a specialized committee that will be formed for the sole purpose of the excess money.
“I know some people don’t really like these taxes because everyone hates spending money, but I think it’s for the best because Fountain Valley is all about being safe and I think we should all do our part to keep it safe and a great place to learn and live,” said Leann Phan (’17).
