Now is not the time for a massive tax increase on families, young people, our seniors and our neighbors.

Lone Tree's mayor and city council are proposing a massive 66% increase of the Lone Tree city sales tax with the “it's just a penny” rhetoric and that Lone Tree has not raised its sales tax rate since 1995.

Lone Tree's total sales tax rate is 6.8125% comprised of 2.9% state, 1% county, 1.8125% Lone Tree (.3125% is dedicated to paying off the debt incurred in building the arts center and improvements at the local pool) and 1.1% RTD sales tax. A one penny increase net of the .3125% that has a specific purpose, is 66%.

Politicians opine that Lone Tree's sales tax rate hasn't been raised since 1995. They omit three key points: Lone Tree's population has grown over 400% since 1995, the cost of goods and products have increased over the years so people are paying sales taxes on higher prices, and Lone Tree now collects sales tax on your online purchases.

A 66% city sales tax increase on school supplies, household items, clothing and online shopping hurts people.

Lone Tree facilitated the construction of the $6.8 million pedestrian bridge that spans Lincoln. Many hard-working individuals question such a lavish expenditure. Lone Tree must tighten its belt like the rest of us, re-assess the sales tax share-back arrangements with certain businesses and entities, and re-assess spending on capital projects. Say “no” to this massive tax increase.

Kim Monson

Lone Tree