Ruidoso Downs Quality of Life tax sinks

From the Alamogordo Daily News - With a sparse turnout, a quality of life gross receipts tax was rejected by voters Tuesday in Ruidoso Downs. The uncertified results of the special election are, with a total 105 ballots cast, 66 opposed the tax with only 39 supporting it. The percentage breaks down to 63 percent against and 37 percent in favor. If the tax had been approved, the city's current GRT rate of 7.625 percent would have increased to 7.875 percent on Jan. 1, 2013.  According to state law, the revenues derived from a quality of life GRT would have to be directed at cultural programs and related activities provided by the city or outside entities. The municipally owned Hubbard Museum of the American West was expected to be included as a beneficiary. Other organizations previously mentioned by city officials were the Boys and Girls Club of Sierra Blanca and the Rox Boxing Club. In May, City Attorney H. John Underwood said the tax was an opportunity to maintain the museum and expand it into a cultural events center for residents of the city.  "Our primary revenue source in the city from gross receipts is Walmart," Underwood told the city council. "And I believe most of the studies have shown Walmart is at least a countywide, in some situations even beyond countywide into Otero County, as far as revenues they spend at Walmart and how it benefits the city of Ruidoso Downs. Together with our tourist industry, it is estimated that approximately 80 to 90 percent of the monies that are spent. Read more

Ruidoso Downs Quality of Life tax sinks