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Early Voting For Temporary Sales Tax Increase For U.S. Marshals Museum Begins Today; Mayor Endorses Tax Increase

FORT SMITH (KFSM) — Early voting begins today (Mar. 5) for a special election seeking a temporary one-cent sales tax increase for the U.S. Marshals Museum in Do...

FORT SMITH (KFSM) — Early voting begins today (Mar. 5) for a special election seeking a temporary one-cent sales tax increase for the U.S. Marshals Museum in Downtown Fort Smith.

If approved, the temporary tax would start in July 2019 and run through March of 2020.

The proposed tax hike is the only thing on the ballot for the special election.

"I hope everyone comes out and vote and let their voices be heard. It's very important that we have the right and the privilege to vote, so I hope that everyone does come out and vote," Sebastian County Clerk Sharon Brooks told 5NEWS.

In a Facebook post, Mayor George McGill endorsed the tax increase.

"In my time as your Mayor and State Representative, I’ve always been a leader with an eye toward the future. But a positive future, with opportunities and benefits for every person in Fort Smith, will not happen by accident.
That’s why it’s imperative that we take the clear opportunity to invest in ourselves, invest in our future, and invest in our status as a premier city by supporting the U.S. Marshals Museum with a YES vote on March 12th.
A YES vote means that we seize the opportunity to put our best foot forward. Using additional revenue to optimize and finalize our Marshals Museum will send a powerful signal to the state and the nation that Fort Smith embraces its status as a community that supports and celebrates its law enforcement heritage and its partnership with our military and veterans. If you have worn a uniform and risked your life in the service and protection of others, Fort Smith is a city that honors you!
Voting YES will tell investors and donors far-and-wide that the mighty Arkansas Riverfront is open for business and will be home to a world-class attraction. Communities that invest in themselves thrive, prosper, and grow. Communities that refuse to accept this reality whither, decay, and, ultimately, fail.
The choice is yours. We have made so many positive steps the last few years. We’ve voted YES to invest in our schools, we’re sacrificing together to fix our water infrastructure, and we’ve elected experienced and dedicated public servants to represent us in City Hall and Little Rock. Don’t waste these hard-fought efforts. Don’t turn your back on progress. And never, ever be complacent when faced with a question that speaks to the very future and fabric of your city.
You hold the power with the mighty and awesome responsibility of your vote. We’re asking for your voice and your support. Please vote YES on March 12th!" - Mayor George McGill

Fort Smith residents can vote from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting today through Monday (Mar. 11 ) at the Sebastian County Courthouse.

The city's 19 voting centers will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Election Day March 12.

Click here to view the Fort Smith voting center locations.

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