Support LOST in Johnson County

As the election gets closer, I encourage residents to support the last question on the ballot - the local-option sales tax initiative.

I am concerned about what will happen to services in our community as we lose $37 million over the next 10 years due to recent changes in legislation regarding property taxes. Every year, communities face difficult decisions regarding funding for services and projects that maintain or improve our quality of life. Any reduction in funding will be less severe with an additional source of income.

The local-option sales tax is a viable solution to replace lost revenue. Most of our basic necessities - food, medicines, gas, and utilities - are not subject to sales tax. Iowa City is one of three metropolitan areas in Iowa that do not have a sales tax. If a local-option sales tax passes throughout the entire county, it is estimated that revenues will range from $16 million to $20 million annually.

Please vote yes for the local-option sales tax. For information, see: www.yesforourcommunities.com.

Dottie Persson

Iowa City