Prop. 424 a practical way to keep Tempe safe, moving

Robin Arredondo-Savage

Submitted photo/Tempe Chamber of Commerce

Tell Us What You Think

What are your thoughts on Tempe Proposition 424, a half-cent sales-tax increase that goes to voters Nov. 3? Tell us in 300 words or less at yourvalley.net/letters, or email your comments, name, address and contact number to AzOpinions@iniusa.org.

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OPINION — As a former Tempe City Council member and small-business owner, I’ve spent years listening to families, first responders and local employers talk about what they need to succeed in our city. It always comes back to the same basics: safe neighborhoods and ways to get around that work.

That’s why I strongly support Proposition 424.

When you call 911, you shouldn’t have to wonder how long it will take for help to arrive. Prop. 424 helps Tempe maintain strong fire, medical and police services so first responders have the people, equipment and support they need to keep our community safe.

Reliable transportation is just as important. Our buses, Orbit routes and streetcar connect people to jobs, school, appointments and local shops and restaurants. Prop. 424 helps keep those options running and makes it easier for people to get where they need to go.

The cost to support this is small. Prop. 424 would add a half-cent sales tax to most purchases in Tempe, 50 cents on a $100 taxable purchase.

Groceries remain exempt. Because it’s a sales tax, visitors, commuters and students who spend money here help share the cost instead of leaving it all on Tempe residents.

Tempe has always invested in its people. Prop 424 is a practical way to keep our city safe and moving. Vote yes on Proposition 424.

Robin Arredondo-Savage is president and CEO of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce, a small-business owner and former Tempe City Council member. Please submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.