Lawrence Votes on Tax Hikes and Transit | Lawrence News

Lawrence city commissioners just approved a steep jump in the property tax rate to 36.06 mills — up 2.35 mills from this year — with a separate sales tax hike proposal to fund the struggling transit system. The library’s funding bump pushes its cap to 4.5 mills, sparking debate as one commissioner opposed the tax increase, citing unnecessary spending. Mayor Finkeldei noted past trends of lowering the rate before final approval. Transit director Felice Lavergne warned that without the proposed 0.1% sales tax increase — adding 2 cents to every $20 spent — service cuts and even the downtown station could vanish. Residents still have time to weigh in before the final budget vote on September 15. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a727931ae344baaf