Sitka voters could soon weigh in on a seasonal sales tax to fund a local childcare initiative. When the Sitka Assembly meets tonight (9-22-26), it will consider setting a special election for February 2.
If approved, Sitka’s upcoming summer sales tax rate would increase from 6% to 6.5%. Winter sales tax would remain unchanged. The city anticipates it could raise more than $1 million in additional sales tax revenue per year with the increase.
Sponsors of the proposal say, if approved by voters, the funds will be put towards workforce incentives, grants, a family scholarship fund, and a childcare career program.
In other business, the assembly will consider protesting a liquor license renewal application for Little Tokyo, which hasn’t operated at its approved premises since at least 2022, and will make appointments to the city’s tourism commission.
The Sitka Assembly meets at 6 p.m. tonight at Harrigan Centennial Hall. Raven News will broadcast the meeting live, following Alaska News Nightly.
