Marshall’s New Aquatic Center
Interest in a new aquatic center has been building in Marshall for the last two decades. An assessment of the current facility was conducted in 2018 and a community survey in 2021 concluded support for new water recreational amenities.
The current Aquatic Center has served the Marshall community for over 50 years, with the main pool being in existence since 1938. The pool provides many things for our community such as a safe place for all ages, an opportunity to learn how to swim, summer employment for young adults, adult swim, water aerobics, and family fun. The current facility has outlived its life expectancy and now needs to be replaced.
Sales Tax Update
The City is seeking legislative and voter approval to extend the current half-percent sales tax to fund this new aquatic center. The estimated $1.5 million generated each year through a Marshall sales tax would be used to pay for these specific capital improvement projects that have a regional impact.
Renewal of Sales tax versus Property Tax
Cities have two primary ways to pay for community improvements—sales taxes and property taxes. Here’s how the cost could break down for each funding option:
- If the projects were funded by sales tax, it would impact individuals 50 cents for 100 dollars they spend on taxable goods and services.
- If the projects were funded through property taxes, the property tax bill for a median-value home would increase by $230 per year.
Procedure
The MN Legislature and Governor have approved the City’s request for extending the sale tax. The sales tax proposal referendum question will be included on the special election ballot on November 7, 2023. Only projects approved by voters may be funded by the sales tax.