During a recent government meeting, local council members discussed the potential impact of a proposed Business and Occupation (B&O) tax increase on nearby businesses. Council member K emphasized the importance of gathering feedback from local businesses and downtown committees before making a decision. He proposed tabling the B&O tax increase for further discussion, suggesting a new meeting date of October 10 to allow for adequate outreach and input from affected parties.

The council acknowledged the urgency of the situation, as a balanced budget must be published by the end of October. However, they expressed a commitment to ensuring that local businesses have a voice in the decision-making process. Council member Wallace raised concerns about the logistics of notifying approximately 697 businesses, emphasizing the need for clear communication and contact information in any correspondence.

The council ultimately agreed to aim for the October 10 meeting, recognizing the challenges of gathering necessary data and feedback within the tight timeline. This decision reflects a broader commitment to engaging with the community and considering the implications of tax policy on local economic health.