Business
Tucson Gears Up for March Election: Town Halls on Prop. 414 Sales Tax Hike

The city of Tucson has organized three town halls for residents to discuss Proposition 414, which proposes increasing the city’s sales tax by half a cent per dollar for ten years. This initiative aims to bolster funding for police and fire departments while also addressing homelessness, childcare support, and assistance for low-income residents.
Tucson’s voters will make a critical decision regarding the Safe & Vibrant City Initiative during the upcoming election on March 11.
The first town hall is scheduled for this Thursday, February 6, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the El Pueblo Senior Center located at 101 W. Irvington Rd. Additional meetings will take place on February 11 at the Morris K. Udall Center, and on February 12 at the Donna R. Liggins Recreation Center, both from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Early ballots will be mailed to all Tucson voters starting February 12. Registration for the election closes on February 10. Voters can register online or obtain forms at various locations like post offices and libraries, as detailed on the Pima County Recorder’s website.
Supporters, including Mayor Regina Romero and the Tucson City Council, advocate for the sales-tax increase, estimating it could generate around $80 million annually. They argue this funding is essential for enhancing police and fire services and supporting housing initiatives for struggling residents.
Conversely, opposition from groups like the Tucson Metro Chamber and the Southern Arizona Leadership Council highlights concerns that the sales tax may not sufficiently address the city’s challenges and may disproportionately affect low-income residents.
If enacted, the Safe & Vibrant City Initiative could deliver substantial funding over the next decade, including:
- $246 million for capital investments for first responders
- $182 million for 911 and 311 operations
- $140 million for affordable housing and shelter
- $134 million for programs targeting violent crime reduction, childcare, and job training
- $98 million for technology enhancements for public safety
A publicity pamphlet will be distributed to Tucson voters on February 4, containing public arguments for and against the proposition. This document will feature 30 statements from supporters, including key figures such as Mayor Romero and several city council members. The solitary opposing argument will come from the Tucson Crime-Free Coalition, which asserts that existing budgetary resources can adequately support city needs without imposing a new tax burden.
For further details, readers are encouraged to consult local news sources regarding Proposition 414.