INDEPENDENT NEWSMEDIA
The campaign in support of the renewal of a transportation tax measure was launched this week by a coalition of business, community and public sector leaders.
The effort in favor of Proposition 400, which is on the November ballot, is led by Pam Kehaly, CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, Mesa Mayor John Giles, Maricopa County Supervisor Jack Sellers, Mike Hoover, CEO of Sundt Construction, and Jim Kenny, CEO of El Dorado Holdings, according to a release.
“Since the passage of Proposition 400 (in 1985), Arizona has become one of the top six states for economic momentum,” Giles said.
“The regional half-cent sales tax has allowed the county to grow responsibly and build a comprehensive transportation network to support Maricopa County residents. This continued investment is critical for future economic development and ensuring Maricopa County residents have access to a variety of transportation options that best meet their needs.”
Maricopa County voters overwhelmingly passed a 20-year half-cent sales tax dedicated to transportation infrastructure in 1985. It was renewed in 2004 with the passage of Proposition 400, which invested in highways, streets, and transit.
The funding is set to expire Dec. 31, 2025. The extension of Proposition 400 was referred to Maricopa County voters by the Arizona Legislature.