Kelso seeks tax extension for fire protection, not 'increase' shown on ballot

Ballot language calls it a tax "increase," but Kelso, Missouri, Mayor Larry McClain said the tax measure on the village's April 3 ballot seeks to extend an existing property tax, not raise it.

McClain said voters repeatedly have extended the tax every four years to fund fire protection.

The Scott County clerk's office said Thursday the ballot language was submitted by town officials. It states, "Shall there be a 13 cents increase in levy on $100 assessed valuation for general municipal purposes for four years beginning in 2018 for fire protection."

An online check of sample ballots in past elections shows the ballot language has remained the same over the course of past municipal elections with the exception of a different starting year.

The county clerk's office said village officials have stated the ballot measure would extend the existing tax.

McClain said the tax revenue is used to pay the Scott City Fire Department to provide fire protection. Kelso is located near Scott City.

"We pay Scott City an amount every year," McClain said, adding the cost is about $12,500.

McClain said the fire protection arrangement keeps insurance rates lower for Kelso property owners than would be the case if the village was not served by a fire department.

He said he doesn't know how long the village of nearly 300 households has had the tax, but the levy has been on the books for at least the 18 years he has served on the village board.

Voter approval of the latest ballot measure "would not change our taxes," the mayor said.

mbliss@semissourian.com

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