Voters to decide on half-cent addition to general sales tax

The Joplin City Council voted unanimously at its special meeting Monday night to let voters decide if a half-cent should be added to the city’s general sales tax…. to provide vital support the Police and Firefighter’s Pension Fund.

The vote was 8-0 with Councilwoman Melody Colbert-Kean not present at the meeting.

Joplin Police Chief Matt Stewart addressed the Council He made the opinions of most police and firefighters in the city crystal clear:

We feel by placing this tax on the ballot this would be the best way to address our issue with recruiting and retention,” Stewart said.

“We all support this initiative and feel this is the best course of action,” he added.

At this time the city only has about 63% of what it needs to support that fund.

The issue will be placed before voters on Nov. 5th.