Title
A Resolution Submitting to the Registered Qualified Electors of the City of Colorado Springs, Colorado, at the Coordinated Election Conducted by Mail Ballot to be Held on Tuesday, November 2, 2021, the Question of Increasing to 0.2% (Two Tenths Of A Cent) and Extending the Sales and Use Tax for the Trails, Open Space and Parks Program ("TOPS") for 20 Years and Modifying the Program for the Purpose of Reallocating the Expenditure Categories, and Allowing Revenue to be Used on all City Parks, Trails and Open Spaces, Providing for the Form of the Ballot Title and Text, Providing for Certain Matters with Respect to the Election, and Providing the Effective Date of this Resolution
Presenter:
Richard Skorman, President Pro-Tem City Council District 3
Karen Palus, Director, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department
Britt Haley, Design, Development and TOPS Program Manager, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Service Department
Body
Summary:
This item presents a ballot question for City Council consideration for a referral to the November 2, 2021 Coordinated Election reflecting work the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department has done with the Mayor, City Council, advisory committees and citizens groups to prepare for a ballot initiative for an increase and extension of the Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOPS) sales and use tax.
Background:
The TOPS Program is funded by .1 percent sales and use tax dedicated to trails, open space and parks. This tax is currently in effect until December 31, 2025 and it collects one (1) cent on every ten (10) dollar purchase in the City of Colorado Springs. It is dedicated to stewardship, acquisition, construction and maintenance of trails, open space, and parks for the City of Colorado Springs. The TOPS program has been in existence since 1997 and during that time the Program has constructed 50 miles of trails, acquired 7,159 acres of open space and built and improved 66 parks.
The TOPS sales and us...
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