TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) - Tucson officials are considering whether to have voters decide on a half-cent sales tax increase that would generate about $30 million for the city's police department.
The Arizona Daily Star reports (http://bit.ly/2hysUI1) the department has identified an estimated $21 million in capital needs for its fleet of 260 patrol vehicles. Police Chief Chris Magnus is also looking to spend up to $4 million on new equipment, including Tasers, ballistic vests and body cameras.
Magnus says getting new patrol vehicles will prevent the department from having to spend millions of dollars each year on maintenance work.
Police are also seeking funds to replace computers and upgrade department facilities.
The City Council will decide next month on whether the tax increase proposal will appear on the May ballot.
The $50 million tax proposal would also put $20 million toward road projects.
