I would like to share some facts about the 1/4
cent sales tax for Public Safety
This is not a new tax, rather, a replacement of an
existing tax to pay for Public Safety. It amounts to 25 cent
on $100. If passed, this ¼ cent sales tax would not be
funneled into the county general fund, but be exclusively designated
for Public Safety.
Legislation has
criminalized drunk driving, domestic violence, and sexual predator
behaviors - all requiring jail time. Since 1980, the
county's population has grown 91.2%. As our population grows, the
occurrences of crime will also grow in correlation and costs will
have to be addressed.
Inmate population has outgrown the available
space. Johnson County holds two jail facilities; one in
downtown Olathe which was built in 1985 and the New Century Jail
built in 2000. The Phase II jail at the New Century site is already
being built due to needs of the county from funds specifically
earmarked for its construction. When completed, several
million dollars spent annually transferring our prisoners to 18
other county jails in Kansas will be saved, and the resources of
officers, vehicles, fuel, etc. used to transfer them back and
forth will be better utilized within our county.
Right now there are over 1,800 cases backlogged in our crime lab
located in Mission, KS, that was built in 1974. The "CSI effect"
from the television shows causes citizens and juries to expect to
see DNA and other scientific evidence during trials from All crime
scenes, not just major crimes, for conviction. The National
average sq. ft. per scientist is 1,000, but our lab has less than
500 sq. ft. per professional. This tax will help to build a new
more centrally located crime lab and ease the backlogs.
1/3 of the funds raised would be shared with
cities.
Juvenile detention population
has more than doubled since 1990. This tax would fund a new
Juvenile Services Complex to serve the needs of the growing
population and to provide quality juvenile services to the
community.
It is true there is no sunset on
this tax, but when is there a sunset on criminal
activity? 2007 statistics show over 40% of crimes in
Johnson County were committed by criminals who were not residents of
our county. Covering Public Safety expenses with the ¼ sales
tax means that non-Johnson County shoppers would help pay for 30% of
this sales tax.
2007 statistics show we are
keeping you safe and as Sheriff I can tell you that you are safe.
Click on the sample ballot for the actual wording of the
question on the ballot.
Your neighbors have talent, and you'll
want to see it! Join us for the 4th Annual Community Cabaret
Show! Watch the show on July 19th. Bring your lawn
chairs and blankets, kick back and enjoy the show. 
Gardner Physical Therapy
