This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
Longmont city staff will be presenting information concerning a Food Tax Rebate Program to city council during the July 24 regular session meeting.
To use as a reference, city staff looked into the food rebate programs of both the City of Boulder and the City of Arvada.
City council communication states, "Both programs are similar in that they are directed toward elderly, disabled and low-income residents and they both utilize the annual income limits set yearly by the Department of Housing & Urban Development."
The information that will be presented to city council states, "Based on the amount of rebates under these two programs it is likely that the cost of rebates processed for a similar program in Longmont would be around $100,000 depending on program criteria. Program administrative cost would likely be around $20,000."
During the July 10, regular session city council meeting, Council member Aren Rodriguez stated that he, "wants to direct staff to provide information in an option rebate program concerning sales tax on food."
Rodriguez states in an email to the Longmont Observer, "I am currently not for or against the initiative due to limited information that has so far been presented. I requested that this information be brought to council in order to have the most current and thorough information available to make a decision on whether to support the initiative or an alternative. I do believe that the city can do better in supporting our most vulnerable residents regardless of the avenue that is eventually taken."
For more information or a view of the city council communication visit the Longmont City Council Agenda page. Click on the Food Rebate Program under General Business and city council communication documents will appear on the right-hand side of the page. To open, just click on the document of your choosing.
