The Basalt Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has voted unanimously to support two measures on the November ballot: Town of Basalt Ballot Measure 3A and Basalt & Rural Fire Protection District Ballot Measure 7A.
“The board believes both measures are vital to the long-term health of Basalt’s business community and the Roaring Fork Valley it serves,” a press release states.
According to the press release, the chamber’s mission is to build a strong community through the promotion of sustainable economic growth and commerce. Its core purposes include promoting Basalt and its businesses, advocating for the business community and strengthening the local economy so it is easier to do business in Basalt.
“The board reviewed this year’s ballot with these goals in mind, choosing to endorse the two local ballot measures that have a direct and significant impact on Basalt businesses,” the press release states. “A town that is safe, well-served and protected from wildfire is a town where businesses want to locate and can thrive.”
The release states that the Board of Directors does not take a sales tax increase lightly, though they “believe the long-term benefits of these two measures to Basalt’s businesses clearly outweigh the cost.”
Town of Basalt Ballot Measure 3A — Sales Tax for Public Services Facilities
Measure 3A would raise the town’s sales tax by 0.5%.
“The revenue would help fund a new combined Police Department and Public Works facility in the midvalley that would support first responders and other core town services,” the release states.
Basalt & Rural Fire Protection District Ballot Measure 7A – Sales Tax for Wildfire Preparedness
Measure 7A proposes a 0.55% sales tax increase.
“The revenue would fund year-round wildfire preparation and mitigation, with a focus on preventing wildfires in the community,” the release states.
Because both measures use sales tax, visitors to the valley would pay part of the cost along with residents, according to the press release. The money would go toward public safety and services that protect the community and the businesses that serve it.
“These two proposed ballot levies are an affordable and smart investment in infrastructure that will help the Basalt community continue to serve the residents and visitors for the foreseeable future,” the release adds.
The chamber encourages all members of the business community to research every measure on the ballot and to vote.
For nonpartisan voter information, visit basaltchamber.org/elections.
To register to vote, find registration, update registration or to find a polling location, visit GoVoteColorado.com.
