Louisiana City Expected to Put Tax Into Effect

DeQuincy, La., city council members are expected to vote Monday night on a proposal to levy a half-cent public safety tax, putting into effect the 15-year renewal of a tax voters approved in November 2011.

The American Press reports the city’s police department receives 58 percent of the revenue generated by tax with the fire department getting the remainder. The tax generates about $247,000 a year.

Public safety officials said the measure, which passed with 73 percent of the vote, is essential to day-to-day operations.

Fire Chief Johnny Copeland said the money helps the city maintain its fire rating under the Property Insurance Association of Louisiana.

Low ratings decrease residents’ property insurance premiums. DeQuincy recently attained a rating of four, which Copeland said is good given the small size of the fire department.

“Without the funds, we wouldn’t be able to buy the equipment we need to meet PIAL requirements,” Copeland said. ”

DeQuincy Police Chief Mike Suchanek said revenue from the tax helps his department pay for new vehicles and equipment.