Harrison City Leaders Discuss Failed Sales Tax, Future Cuts Possible

HARRISON, AR. - Harrison city leaders met Thursday night to discuss the recent failure of a sales tax renewal that would have continued funding for essential city services. The tax, which dedicated over 60% of its revenue to the Fire and Police Departments, is set to expire at the end of the year.

During the Harrison City Council meeting, Councilman Wayne Cone, leading the meeting in Mayor Jerry Jackson's absence, opened the floor for council reports. Council Member Reed Petty immediately brought up the impact of the tax ending. City Financial Officer Luke Feighert explained that both departments would need to review their budgets, and it's likely that staff positions would have to be cut once the tax expires.

Council Member Mitch Magness shared his thoughts, stating that voters are always right, but acknowledged that the city did not effectively communicate how vital city services would be affected by the tax ending.

Council Member Josh Earl addressed some of the discussions happening online and in the community regarding job cuts. While he supported the tax, he pointed out that the city needs to be clearer about the actual consequences of losing this income.

Department heads will now analyze their budgets and present more detailed information at the next council meeting. At that time, council members are also expected to begin discussions about whether to ask voters to approve the tax again in November.

In brighter news, a separate sales tax proposal, specifically for city infrastructure projects, did pass and will now be a permanent source of funding for those improvements.

The complete meeting video is available for viewing on the City of Harrison Facebook Page.