A proposed 2% restaurant tax referendum in the Town of Ackerman failed to pass despite receiving majority voter support in a recent election.
According to unofficial results released by the town, the measure received:
- Yes (For the tax): 113 votes (58.85%)
- No (Against the tax): 79 votes (41.15%)
Although more voters supported the proposal than opposed it, the referendum required a 60% supermajority to pass. The measure ultimately fell short of that threshold by approximately 2 votes, according to the reported totals.
The proposal would have implemented a 2% tax on restaurant sales, with revenues designated to fund a proposed sportsplex project and other community improvements.
Because the measure did not reach the required approval level, town officials indicated the sportsplex project is now on hold indefinitely. Without the proposed funding source, there is currently no identified path forward for completion.
Town officials also noted the result leaves the municipality out of compliance with original grant requirements tied to the project. Until that issue is resolved, access to certain future grant-funded infrastructure opportunities may be limited.
