Voters approved the Pettis County Fire Protection District’s levy proposition during the Tuesday, April 7 Municipal Election.
The question asked voters for an additional 20 cents per $100 of assessed property valuation. The increase would raise the district’s total levy to about $0.4684.
Exactly 58.96% of the vote approved the increase, with 1,277 voting yes and 889 voting no.
District officials previously stated the additional tax revenue would help address several needs, including equipment upgrades, station repairs and staffing.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support shown tonight,” The Department said in a social media post. “This levy wasn’t about growth, it was about sustaining and strengthening the service our community depends on every day. We’ve done everything we can to be responsible with what we have, and this vote ensures we can continue to show up when it matters most. Thank you for trusting us. We won’t waste it.
The levy was one of two approved by voters in Pettis County.
In Smithton, Proposition T.I.G.E.R did not pass, needing a 3/5 approval. Only 50.40% of voters approved the ballot question that would increase its levy by 45 cents per $100 of assessed valuation. The tally featured 375 yes votes and 369 no.
The increase would have brought several improvements in the district, primarily focusing on security, accessibility and traffic safety around the school campus.
Also in Pettis County, voters approved SB3, exempting eligible taxpayers from certain tax increases. The item limits how much a homeowner’s tax liability can grow each year.
Though 58.96% of Pettis County voters approved the item, a state court decision could override the decision. There were 1,277 yes votes and 889 no votes.
County-wide, 5,929 of 27,073 voters cast their ballot, a 21.9% turnout.
Smithton School Board
Smithton School District voters approved three members to the district’s school board.
Newcomer Adam Gerke led a field of four candidates with 539 votes. Incumbent Devin Gaspard finished second with 480 and newcomer Jamey Kroeger finished third with 397.
Incumbent Dennis Steele finished fourth with 353. There were eight write-ins.
La Monte Ward One Alderman
The La Monte Ward One council position resulted in Lyle Roberts defeating Austin Simons 38-17. There were two write-ins.
