Salem Council discusses putting half-percent income tax on fall ballot

SALEM — Council took the first step needed to place a four-year, half-percent income tax increase on the fall ballot.

But council members indicated tonight they are far apart on the measure that will take two more council votes to reach voters.

Democrat Councilman Earl A Schory II, who heads council’s committee of the whole that previously discussed the tax, said he felt uncomfortable even bringing it up.

“I don’t know if I can introduce it,” he said.

But Republican Councilwoman Rita O’Leary said she would bring up the proposal.

O’Leary had the measure voted on once. She said the second and third readings needed for passage to put the tax before voters would be brought up at the next council meeting.

For the complete story, see Wednesday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com