5 S. Davis cities considering RAP tax
And if the numbers make sense, city councils in the other four South Davis cities — Bountiful, West Bountiful, Woods Cross and North Salt Lake — may put a similar tax increase on their November ballots as well.
The sales-tax increase, known as a RAP tax, for recreation, arts and parks, would be one-tenth of one percent and would be valid for eight years, said Blaine Lutz, Centerville finance director.
Money could also be used to build an outdoor sports complex in southern Davis County.
Lutz said he is looking into the feasibility of a RAP tax and expects to make a presentation to the Centerville City Council.
So far, it seems it could work, but a lot of ifs would have to fall in line.
If all five South Davis cities put the tax on the ballot, and if the voters decide to impose the tax on themselves, and if a private donor puts up some money, Centerville's Redevelopment Agency could bond for a new theater.
Lutz has to analyze a variety of scenarios, including what would happen if not all five cities choose to vote for the tax.
And he knows it could be a hard sell.
County commissioners recently voted to place a .25 percent sales-tax increase for transportation and transit on November's ballot.
The South Davis mayors know it may be tough for them to ask for a further .1 percent sales-tax increase.
A few years ago, county commissioners put a countywide RAP tax vote on the ballot, and it was voted down because residents didn't have a clear picture of what the money would be used for, Lutz said.
"We want to do a good job, if we do move forward, of providing information to the people," Lutz said. "We want them to understand what the issue is. If they don't agree, then they can vote against it."
Bountiful Mayor Joe Johnson said he believes in the project and would like to put it to a vote.
"If the public knows exactly what they're going to get, it's not just a tax," Johnson said. "Then, they're more inclined to buy off on it."
North Salt Lake Mayor Shanna Shaefermeyer said South Davis cities might have to leave a new theater up to private enterprise, especially if the numbers aren't there.
And she hasn't yet seen any numbers to convince her that the project would be feasible.
"It's extremely expensive," Shaefermeyer said. "I'm concerned about the ongoing cost."
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