Restaurant tax renewal passes easily

By Randy Bell

Clinton voters gave overwhelming approval to four more years of a two per cent restaurant tax during a special election June 9. The tax revenue is earmarked for parks and recreation improvements.

Needing 60 per cent approval to pass, 82 per cent of the voters were in favor of the tax. At press time, ahead of the absentee ballot count, the total votes were 432 “yes,” and 90 “no.” The tax was first approved in 2022 with 66 per cent of the votes in favor. State law requires a new vote every four years.

Mayor Will Purdie says the tax revenue helps to improve the quality of life in Clinton.

“It’s hard to overstate how much it expands our ability to provide parks and recreation,” said Purdie. “I think the projects we’ve seen come from it already really speak for themselves. A lot of these projects simply would not be possible without this fund.”

The tax has generated $5.4 million. Some of the money has been spent for a pickleball complex at Towne Park, an all-inclusive playground at Brighton Park and restrooms at Traceway Park.

With additional revenue guaranteed over the next four years, Parks and Recreation Director Courtney Nunn says, “We hope to continue our progress. Soccer (Field) 5 needs a restroom. We’re going to be looking to upgrade the fitness area at Brighton as well as a paved walking path at Towne Park – and a few more items, too.”

Nunn says it was a big relief to get such a resounding vote of confidence from the citizens of Clinton.

“I do think we’ve been able to show what we can do with the two per cent,” said Nunn. “We’ve made some huge impacts, and we’re looking forward to continuing to grow.”