RAP Tax Explained

Today in Rotary Tuacahn’s Executive Director of Development Jeff Fisher explained the proposed RAP tax (Recreation, Arts and Parks Enhancements), which if approved by Washington County voters, will mean an increase in sales tax of 1/10 of 1 percent.  Similar to Salt Lake County’s ZAP (Zoo, Arts and Parks) and Cache County’s RAPZ (Recreation, Arts, Parks and Zoos) taxes, this program will likely go before voters on the November 2014 ballot to benefit established and new Arts and Recreation programs throughout Washington County.  If implemented, 85% of funds collected ($2.2 million in the first year or two, according to estimates) will be distributed to local municipalities to use as they see fit to support projects such as the renovation of the SunBowl and the Electric Theater.  The remaining 15% will fund grants to arts and cultural organizations in the community as awarded by a 7-member committee.