Committee looks to maintain fire tax in Cape

A committee has organized to encourage Cape Girardeau voters to approve a fire-tax measure that will appear on the Nov. 4 ballot.

The quarter-cent tax, which supports equipment and infrastructure needs for the Cape Girardeau Fire Department, initially was approved by voters in 2004. One-eighth of the tax is permanent, while the remainder is up for voter renewal before it reaches its 10-year sunset.

Cape Girardeau City Council member Wayne Bowen, who also is council liaison to the Committee to Continue the Fire Tax, called the tax "critical not only to maintain our current services, but to replace equipment and facilities as they become outdated or unusable."

The group is launching a campaign to inform voters of public safety needs in the city. It will begin officially at 7 a.m. Friday during the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce's First Friday Coffee, held at the Isle Casino Cape Girardeau Event Center.

The Committee to Continue the Fire Tax, which is led by Alliance Bank president Kevin Greaser, also plans to speak with residents throughout Cape Girardeau about renewing the tax before the November vote.

Those who wish to learn more about the fire tax or the committee may contact committee treasurer Doug Austin at ldaustin1@charter.net or visit facebook.com/CGCTCFT.

Pertinent address:

Cape Girardeau, Mo.