Local opinion: Prop 414 will hurt working families

and analysis of the writers:

As former Tucson City Council members representing different political parties, we’ve seen our share of well-intentioned but misguided proposals. Proposition 414 would raise our city’s sales tax to an astounding 9.2%. While its proponents claim it benefits our community, this measure harms the working families of Tucson. We encourage you to vote no on Proposition 414!

If this passes, Tucson will be amongst the highest sales tax of any community in Arizona, with a population greater than 75,000. This isn’t a distinction we should be proud of.

A sales tax is inherently regressive, meaning it takes a larger percentage of household income from low-income earners than from high-income earners. Over the past few years, inflation has negatively affected our way of life. This new tax will further decrease the ability of single parents or senior citizens on a fixed income to maintain their budgets and make purchases to support themselves and their families. A half-cent increase might seem small to some, but every penny counts for our struggling neighbors living paycheck to paycheck.

The proponents of Proposition 414 argue that the additional revenue will fund important community programs. While these programs may be worthwhile, the funding method is fundamentally flawed. We must explore alternatives that don’t disproportionately impact our most vulnerable residents. This could include implementing more efficient government operations, developing public-private partnerships, selling bonds, and pursuing grants.

The Old Pueblo prides itself on being an affordable place to live, work, and raise a family. It is also a community that embraces transparency and open communication. While we didn’t agree on all of the issues when we were Council Members, our budget processes were open to public comment and scrutiny. In fact, during our service on the City Council, we faced much more significant budget shortfalls, and we tackled those challenges by evaluating service levels and making painful yet necessary cuts without raising the sales tax. There were public hearings and challenging public conversations about the real priorities of our community.

In today’s case, the city conducted a small survey, and — “voila!” — the citizens now face a special election in March that will negatively impact their wallets and families. If this is such a great solution, why aren’t the council members up for election in November willing to be on the same ballot as this regressive tax increase?

As former public servants who have dedicated years to this community, we urge voters to look beyond the surface-level promises of Proposition 414. Consider the real-world impact on working families, seniors, and small businesses. Ask yourself: Is making Tucson the highest-taxed city in the region the path to prosperity?

We believe Tucson deserves better than Proposition 414. Our community can find more creative and equitable solutions to our challenges without burdening those who can least afford it. Vote NO on Proposition 414 and demand more thoughtful, balanced approaches to addressing our city’s future needs.