Supporting research into a potential Food and Beverage Tax

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Resolution Supporting Additional Research on Potential Food & Beverage Tax Page 3 largest fiscal bodies in St. Joseph County [St. Joseph County Council, South Bend Common Council, Mishawaka Common Council] being required to approve such legislation; and G," in the interest of providing opportunities for public input, discussion, and transparency, there is a need for further research and collaboration on the potential short and long -range impact which a food and beverage tax may have on the residents and businesses in St. Joseph County, Indiana, and W by studying relevant data and information on the Indiana twenty -seven (27) communities which have a food and beverage tax, the public will have the opportunity to see if indeed such a tax has been a "tool to help enhance the quality of place within each of their communities "; and 6)ACm,4 by reviewing how such food & beverage funds have been used, by reviewing what purposes are being addressed, and by seeing what guidelines are being used, this background information can then elicit thoughtful public discussions on such basic questions as: • Is a food and beverage tax needed as a development tool in our community? . • What realistic alternatives, other than a food and beverage tax, can be used as a development tool? • If a food and beverage tax is a viable option, what entities should have the opportunity to benefit from such public dollars, and how would competing interest be evaluated and by whom? • What criteria should be used to determine the best possible use for food and beverage tax dollars? Section I. The Common Council believes that public input and transparency, especially with regard to assets dedicated to the public good, is in our community's best interests. Section II. The South Bend Common Council is in support of researching the impact on the community of a potential adoption of a food and beverage tax in St. Joseph County not to exceed one percent (1 %) total ^oT-d high ° . with such research addressing all of the questions raised in this Resolution and all viable options and alternatives. Section III. The Common Council recommends that as additional data and research is conducted by any and all entities on the topics addressed in this Resolution, that it be shared with the Office of the City Clerk for timely dissemination to the South Bend Common Co cil for review and public discussion. Section IV. This Resolution shall be in full fa e and of e from after its adoption by the Common Council and approval by the Mayor. Council Member Randy Kelly, 31 District Council Member South Bend Common Council