Goodlettsville voters reject 0.5% sales tax hike

Goodlettsville residents voted to keep their local sales tax rates unchanged on Tuesday. The measure, which would have added a half-cent levy to fund public safety and infrastructure, failed to gain the necessary majority. Sumner County election records show 47.37% of voters approved the proposal while 52.63% voted it down.

The city is divided between Davidson and Sumner counties, which created different tax implications for each side. Had the referendum passed, the tax rate on the Davidson County side would have risen to 10.25%. The Sumner County side would have reached 9.75%. City officials noted that the Davidson County rate would have placed Goodlettsville among the highest sales tax jurisdictions in Tennessee.

City leaders projected the new revenue would generate approximately $3 million annually. This additional income was intended to offset pressure on property tax rates. The funds were earmarked for three primary areas, including public safety staffing and equipment procurement.

Beyond safety measures, the plan included improvements to pedestrian infrastructure. Projected investments covered sidewalk expansions, greenway development, and better access for walkers throughout the city. The tax increase would have applied to purchases at local businesses such as grocery stores and restaurants.

With the vote, the city retains its current tax structure. No immediate changes to the revenue stream for public safety or infrastructure projects are scheduled based on this election result.