Funding
cuts would sting Newton if state sales tax replaces
RAPZ
By Chris Johnsen
February 7, 2005 | NEWTON -- Parks
and recreation funding could decrease dramatically if
Utah's RAPZ tax (Recreation Arts Parks Zoos) is replaced
by a uniform state sales tax.
Newton, over the past three years has received $58,000
from RAPZ, which has been used to provide parks, restrooms,
and playground equipment. Revenue from a uniform state
sales tax is likely to be distributed throughout the
state according to population, which means smaller populations
like Newton will get less funding for parks and recreation.
"If they split it up on population, it will really
hurt us," said Councilman Gaylen Maughan.
The town population is probably between 700 and 1,200
but the number will remain unsure until a new census
is conducted, said the town council at its meeting Thursday.
If state tax money is distributed according to population,
Newton will need all the citizens it can find, said
the council.
The RAPZ tax was helpful: "It basically dumped a million
dollars in the county, people could apply for it. I'm
thankful for what the town got, it makes our town safer,"
said Maughan.
The new state tax is expected to pass this year, said
Susan Newmeyer-Jeppson, city treasurer.
Additionally, the council agenda included the creation
of a subdivision ordinance. Maughan volunteered to work
on the ordinance and said the ordinance was needed to
place requirements on housing developers. The town currently
has no subdivision ordinance.
"Somebody could walk all over us if they wanted to,"
said Maughan.
Newton's new ordinance will require developers to
provide water, electricity, sewer, curb and gutter,
roads, and irrigation water before they can get a building
permit said Maughan. The council discussed examples
of subdivision ordinances from other communities including
Smithfield, which they said has one of the toughest
subdivision ordinances.
The council also discussed:
-- Finding leads to grant applications to acquire
land for the new Fire Department.
-- State requirements to provide electronic voting booths
for the 2006 elections.
-- Adoption of the Newton Town code updated from 1976.
The council will hold a public hearing March 3, 6:30
p.m. and the council meeting will follow at 7 p.m.
NW
MS |
