A group advocating a measure allowing a local option sales tax in Kentucky is gathering support for a statewide referendum. The Local Investments for Transformation, or LIFT, initiative is a one percent tax, and it would need a ballot vote since it requires a constitutional amendment. Representatives passed a similar measure last spring, but it was stopped before entering the Senate due to a lack of support. LIFT spokesman Matt Erwin says he thinks there are now enough people on board for the 2016 legislative session.
"“Given the broad support we really believe that it's time has come in Kentucky. And I think it's important to mention that one percent is the cap. If a community wanted to do a half percent or a point-two-five percent sales tax it's up to them. All we are trying to do is empower communities to have this tool to meet the infrastructure needs they seek for themselves.” Erwin said.
Erwin says the tax is an economic development tool to help communities with local projects they have found difficult to fund in the past. Communities across the state have suggested it could help pay for projects like new YMCA recreation centers, fire departments and a local sports complex.
