County proposes sales tax increase to enhance criminal justice services

Adams County submitted a measure proposing a sales and use tax increase in the Nov. 6 General Election ballot.

If approved, the measure would increase sales tax in Adams County in the amount of three-tenths of one percent. The revenue generated from the tax increase would be divided between the cities and Adams County for the purpose of enhancing law enforcement and criminal justice services.

Adams County Sheriff Dale Wagner explained the tax increase would apply to goods sold in the county, including food and gas.

The Adams County Treasurer’s Office would create a dedicated fund within the county budget entitled “Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Sales Tax.”

The resolution states 60 percent of the revenue generated from the sales tax will go to Adams County. The estimated dollar amount retained for the county would be $282,002.26.

The revenue would be used to improve the county court and county jail. Wagner said the money would also fund three additional deputy positions, three new corrections officers, a records and evidence clerk for the Sheriff’s Office and possibly a dispatcher.

Wagner said the additional hires would allow the Sheriff’s Office to function at a higher capability and better serve Adams County residents.

“At the time I started, we had 20 deputies and we’re at 16, including myself and Undersheriff Adolfo Coronado on patrol,” Wagner said.

The remaining 40 percent of the revenue will be distributed on a per capita basis to municipalities in Adams County. The estimated amount distributed to the municipalities would be $188,001.50.

Towns like Washtucna and Lind, who contract with ACSO for law enforcement services, could use the revenue toward paying for the contract. Cities like Ritzville and Othello could use the revenue toward operations for local law enforcement.

If voters approve the measure, the sales tax increase would take effect on Jan. 1, 2019.