Expansion of open space sales and use tax

What it asks: “Without increasing tax rates or imposing a new tax, the City of Longmont’s existing two-tenths-cent sales and use tax for open space purposes, currently scheduled to expire in 2034, shall be extended indefinitely, with revenue from such taxes.” for use to acquire, improve, and maintain open space for purposes including, but not limited to: conservation of natural areas, wildlife areas, wildlife habitat, wetlands, agriculture, and view corridors; and county parks dedicated to low-impact recreational use?”

What it means: Should Longmont’s existing open space sales and use tax, which is 2 cents on every $10 purchase, be permanently expanded to purchase and manage municipal open space, land and water? This ballot question is not about increasing taxes, but rather about maintaining the existing open space sales and use tax.

What supporters say: Longmont’s open space program preserves natural areas, protects wildlife habitat, supports view corridors and more. With so much land being developed, open space is critical to Longmont.

What opponents say: Longmont’s existing open space sales and use tax does not expire until 2034. While open space has its merits, it is still too early to vote on whether or not this tax should be made permanent.