Election Day is Nov. 5, but you might be voting on some big bonds even sooner if you vote by mail. Bonds are a type of loan, backed by taxes, that need to be approved by voters. Here’s what’s on the ballot.
ZAP
If you’re a Salt Laker, chances are you’ve attended or visited something supported by the Zoo, Arts, and Parks program. The ZAP tax helps fund over 200 organizations, including museums, theaters, botanical gardens, zoos, and parks across the county. Voters decide whether to renew the tax every 10 years.
💸 It’ll cost a sales tax of one cent per $10 spent, so the average resident will pay about $8-$12 a year. In 2023, the ZAP tax generated more than $36 million.
Public Safety Bond
A $507 million Public Safety Bond would fund a Justice and Accountability Center which is an alternative to jail for low-level offenders. It will offer mental health and substance abuse services, job training, and housing opportunities. The bond will also consolidate the two county jails, expanding capacity and adding mental health treatment.
💸The average resident with a home valued at $600,000 will pay an additional $60 a year in property taxes. The average business owner would pay an additional $107 a year.
🗓️ A public meeting will take place at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 8, to present arguments in favor and against the ballot proposition.
SLC Schools Bond
The Salt Lake City School District Board of Education is proposing a $730 million bond to rebuild Highland and West high schools, add an athletic field house at East High, and implement sustainability upgrades across the district. These general obligation bonds, which require voter approval, are secured by property taxes and can only be used for construction projects, not for things like teacher salaries or classroom supplies.
💸 It’s estimated the bond will increase property taxes by $38.33 per year for every $100,000 in home value. That means, if your home is valued at $576,000 (the median in SLC), your anticipated annual increase would be $220.80. For businesses, the tax increase would be $67.70 per year for every $100,000 in property value.
🗓️ The Salt Lake City School District is hosting two more open houses from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 9 and Wednesday, Oct. 23 for more on the bond proposal.
