Champaign County Voters Face Decision on Sales Tax Increase for Public Safety
Champaign County voters will soon decide whether to raise the county’s Public Safety Sales Tax by a quarter of a cent, a measure that could generate an estimated $7 million annually to bolster various public safety departments. The proposed tax hike, on the November 5, 2024 ballot, would increase the tax from 25 cents to 50 cents for every $100 spent in the county, excluding groceries, vehicles, and medical supplies.
Sheriff Dustin Heuerman supports the increase, emphasizing that the funds could provide critical resources for improving responses to emergencies, such as hiring mental health professionals to assist law enforcement at crime scenes. According to the Sheriff’s Department, the funds could also allow for the hiring of two additional deputies to serve rural areas, addressing staffing shortages.
Expanded Support for County Services
If passed, the additional revenue could reconfigure allocations across several county departments, including the Veteran’s Assistance Commission (VAC), which aids veterans in improving their economic well-being and quality of life. Though not directly tied to public safety, the additional sales tax could free up funds to expand VAC’s services to veterans.
Other beneficiaries include the Public Defender’s Office, which faces significant staffing challenges. The office currently requires at least 11 additional attorneys to manage its caseload effectively. Increased funding could support more hires to ensure the justice system moves efficiently.
Similarly, the State’s Attorney’s Office, responsible for prosecuting offenders and supporting crime victims, could use the funds to increase services for victims of violent crime and improve legal representation.
Public Safety Needs
Champaign County’s Public Safety Sales Tax has been in place since 1999 and currently raises about $6.5 to $7 million annually. However, with the county’s growing population and changes in the criminal justice system, more funding is needed. Recent reforms have reduced court fees and fines, decreasing revenue for essential county services. As Champaign County is not a home rule county, it has limited options for generating stable revenue, prompting the need for the proposed tax increase.
Mixed Opinions
Not all local officials support the tax hike. Representative Carol Ammons, a Democrat representing parts of Champaign County, expressed her concerns, stating, “There is nothing progressive about taking from low-income and working people to fund law enforcement projects after financial mismanagement.” Ammons also pointed out that no specific commitments have been made about how the additional $7 million would be distributed among public safety departments.
If voters approve the increase, the County Board will determine the exact allocation of the funds, though no formal plan has been outlined.
