Voters in St Joseph have approved a half-cent increase in the local sales tax for public safety.

According to returns from the Buchanan County Clerk’s Office, 4,442 people voted yes (55.88%), and 3,507 people vote no (44.12%). Voter turnout was 17.77% (7,951 out of 44,733 eligible voters).

The Public Safety Tax is expected to generate over five million dollars per year, and includes a 20-year sunset clause.

Authorities will use the money to fund the salaries of additional police officers, to fund higher salaries for members of the police, fire and health departments, and to pay for new equipment and vehicles.

44,733
BALLOTS CAST – TOTAL. . . . . . . 7,951