Sterling council approves 1% sales-tax proposal for November ballot
The council voted 7-0 to refer a proposed five-year city sales-and-use tax to voters, with estimated annual revenue of $3.6 million for streets and related infrastructure.
The Sterling City Council voted 7-0 on Aug. 25 to approve a proposed temporary 1% city sales-and-use tax for the Nov. 3, 2026, ballot. The approved council proceedings identify the measure as Resolution 8-2-26.
The resolution directed city officials to certify the ballot question to the Logan County clerk by Sept. 4. The available record does not include proof of subsequent certification, so placement on the ballot has not been independently confirmed.
If approved by voters, the tax would begin Jan. 1, 2027, and last five years. The ballot language estimates it would raise $3.6 million annually, or about $18 million over the full term, though actual collections could vary.
The resolution and ballot language list repaving, repairing, maintaining and improving city streets and roads as eligible uses, along with related drainage, curbs, gutters and pedestrian-safety improvements. The revenue would go into a dedicated fund separate from the city’s General Fund.
The adopted language does not identify specific projects, set a project-by-project allocation formula or provide an annual spending schedule. It also does not list tax exemptions or include a separate sunset clause beyond the five-year term.
Residents raised questions during the council process about exemptions, the existing street-repair budget, a sunset clause, transparency and contractor selection. Those questions were recorded in the proceedings but were not adopted as additional conditions of the tax.