JEFFERSON CITY — State Sen. Joseph Keaveny, D-St. Louis, is encouraging citizens from across the state, but especially those in the 4th Senatorial District, to vote today.
“There are a number of issues on municipal ballots across the state and today is the day for Missouri voters to let their voices be heard on their local issues,” Sen. Keaveny said. “I would like to remind everyone to head to their local polling place and cast their ballot today.”
St. Louis ballots include a variety of municipal races; however, voters within the city are also being asked to vote on the earnings tax. The official ballot language reads:
Shall the earnings tax of 1%, imposed by the City of St. Louis, be continued for a period of five (5) years commencing January 1 immediately following the date of this election?
In 2011, city residents voted to keep a 1 percent earnings tax, sparing any losses of St. Louis’ significant revenue source. City voters are being asked again today if they want to continue this 1 percent tax. If approved, this question will be asked again in five years.
“To keep the earnings tax for the next five years and $164 million in the operating budget, a majority of city voters must vote yes to retain the tax on April 5,” Sen. Keaveny said. “As the earnings tax is vital to the St. Louis economy, I strongly encourage my constituents to vote yes on the earnings tax and preserve this critical source of operating revenue.”
City voters last approved the earnings tax in April, 2011 with an 88 percent approval rate.
There are a total of five propositions on the ballot that voters in the 4th Senatorial District are being asked to consider.
For more information, visit Sen. Keaveny’s official Senate website at www.senate.mo.gov/keaveny.