To: NRN Members
Re: Fort Collins, CO (Larimer County, Pop 167,000)– Elimination of Sales & Use Tax Exemption for Cigarettes
On Tuesday, May 17, 2022, at 6 PM, the Fort Collins City Council will consider the second reading of an ordinance eliminating the sales and use tax exemption for cigarettes as part of the consent calendar. Eliminating the sales and use tax exemption for cigarettes would constitute a tax increase on cigarettes that is not required to go to the ballot for voter approval.
Fort Collins City Council Meeting Details:
--Date: Tuesday, May 17, 2022
--Time: 6:00 PM
--Location: Fort Collins City Hall, 300 Laporte Avenue, Fort Collins,CO80521 or virtually (viewing information below)
Talking Points to Oppose Local Taxes:
- Due to the pandemic and rising gas prices, retailers are experiencing losses of 45% in gasoline sales and up to 20% of losses or more in in-store sales at fuel service stations.
- Cigarette taxes are highly regressive with low-income residents carrying the greatest burden.
- Additional local taxes will force adult customers to drive to find products elsewhere or on the internet.
- Fort Collins retailers will lose important revenue when shoppers get cigarettes and other products elsewhere.
Take Action today:
- Contact your local legislators before the hearing:
- Call and email your elected officials (contact information below)
- Attend the virtual hearing and speak out
- Notify other retailers and association members and encourage them to take action
Contact the Fort Collins City Council:
|
Council Member |
District |
|
Phone |
|
Jeni Arndt |
Mayor |
970-416-2154 |
|
|
Susan Gutowski |
District 1 |
970-294-2575 |
|
|
Julie Pignataro |
District 2 |
970-556-2869 |
|
|
Tricia Canonico |
District 3 |
970-305-6296 |
|
|
Shirley Peel |
District 4 |
970-217-5817 |
|
|
Kelly Ohlson |
District 5 |
970-493-7725 |
|
|
Emily Francis |
District 6 and Mayor Pro Tem |
970-556-4748 |
|
|
Email Full City Council |
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Unless the item is removed from the consent calendar, public testimony will NOT be allowed. Instructions to view the meeting virtually are below.
WATCH THE MEETING:
Anyone can view the Council meeting live on Channels 14 and 881 or online at www.fcgov.com/fctv. Note: Only individuals who wish to address Council should use the Zoom link or call in by phone. Anyone who wants to watch the meeting, but not address Council, should view the FCTV livestream.
Copies of the city council meeting agenda, staff report, and draft ordinance are attached. Please contact me if you have any questions.