Lewisville Mulls Sales Tax Hike to Improve Public Safety

The city of Lewisville is urging residents to approve a sales tax increase that would help fund a crime control district and fire district.

Fire Chief Tim Tittle said the election is crucial for the future of public safety in Lewisville.

"If this doesn't pass, there is a potential that the needs of our department may never be met," he said. "It definitely is going to be critical for the future out east of town."

As Lewisville grows, more police officers and firefighters are needed, along with emergency vehicles and new facilities, Tittle said.

If Proposition 1 and 2 pass, the sales tax rate in Lewisville would increase to 8.25 percent.

Most North Texas cities the size of Lewisville are already at this rate.

"We are one of the few that aren't at that rate, so we would  just be catching up to our neighboring communities," Tittle said.

"I don't think it will be that noticeable," resident Pat Kirby said. "I really, really don't."

But some Lewisville residents are opposed to the proposed increase.

"If it involves additional taxes or additional spending, I'm basically against it," Robert Orange said. "I'm a retired person on a fixed income. We don't need any more taxes."

The city is urging residents to vote on the measures. So far, the early voting turnout has been low.

Lewisville residents can vote early at the Lewisville Municipal Annex. The special election will take place on Nov. 8.