Audio By Carbonatix
Does the food tax leave a bad taste in your mouth? It’s not too late to do something about it.
Yesterday, the Phoenix City Council voted 6-3 to approve a two percent tax on groceries, intended to raise an estimated $62 million over two years to preserve the jobs of cops, firefighters, and other city employees facing layoffs amid the budget deficit.
When the tax takes effect in April, the only Valley cities where you’ll be able to stock your fridge tax-free will be Mesa and Surprise.
But starting a week from today, residents will get a chance to speak up about the tax and a slew of proposed cuts in city services and programs at a series of public budget hearings. You can also leave comments at Phoenix.gov or at 602-262-4800.
When news happens, Phoenix New Times is there —
Your support strengthens our coverage.
We’re aiming to raise $30,000 by December 31, so we can continue covering what matters most to you. If New Times matters to you, please take action and contribute today, so when news happens, our reporters can be there.
Depending on the results of the hearings, the council could reverse the decision in March.