Santa Fe Voters Approve Bonds, Fire Tax

County voters were in a bounteous mood on Tuesday, decisively approving three bonds proposals worth a cumulative $35 million. Rural residents also approved a quarter-cent gross receipts tax increase to fund capital fire needs.

“I am particularly pleased because a lot of that bond is going to be for services that go directly back to the community, that affect the larger community,” County Commissioner Virginia Vigil said.

The bonds will provide $19 million for roads, $10 million for water and wastewater projects and $6 million for open space, parks and trails. The proposals were unofficially approved with more than two-thirds of the vote.

The fire tax increase — about 25 cents on a $100 purchase — is expected to generate about $1.24 million annually. The tax will only apply to sales by businesses located in county areas outside the incorporated municipalities of Santa Fe, Española and Edgewood.

Tax revenue will be used for fire equipment vehicles, buildings, gear and similar items. State law mandates it cannot be used for salaries or benefits.

About two-thirds voters green-lighted the tax. It was a far cry from three years ago, when voters soundly rejected the tax increase in a special election.

“I’m very appreciative of the majority of Santa Fe County voters who appear to recognize the value of the Santa Fe County Fire Department and are willing to raise taxes to further support our operations,” County Fire Chief David Sperling said.

Vigil noted that there wasn’t any strong opposition to the bonds this year, something she attributed to the county’s efforts to educate people about the proposals and quick response to questions and inquiries.