Local Sales Tax Renewal Info Session

The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce will host a series of information sessions with the City of Rochester detailing the renewal of the local sales tax for Rochester and we encourage you to join us. Each information session will provide an opportunity to gain insight into the proposal in advance of the November 7th election. These information sessions are open to both the public and business community to attend. Registration is appreciated, but not required.

Since 1982, Rochester has utilized the half-percent local sales tax as a mechanism to collect revenue for various public investment projects. As a regional hub, Rochester brings in a large number of outside visitors. University of Minnesota research estimates that 43% of the local sales tax is paid by non-residents.

The renewal of the local sales tax would generate $205 million to fund four projects including street reconstruction, an economic vitality fund, flood control and water quality, and a regional sports and recreation facility.

• Street reconstruction plays a key role in ensuring safe access to businesses and homes throughout Rochester while enhancing the quality of life for the community, visitors, and those who commute to Rochester.
• The economic vitality fund can provide investments in housing, workforce development, and childcare. These three issues impact both businesses and community.
• While certain areas are more prone to floods in Rochester, major floods impact both personal and commercial traffic, including services of mail delivery, utilities, emergency services, and more. The economic impact of a major flood event is significant and directly effects the community and region.
• The regional sports and recreation facility can capitalize on Rochester’s status as a regional hub, bringing in additional tourism and a substantial economic impact to the area while enhancing available recreation space for the community.

Join us for an information session on Tuesday, September 19^th from 3:00-4:00pm at the Saint Mary's University of Minnesota - Rochester Campus to learn more about the sales tax renewal. This information session is open to both the public and business community to attend. Registration is appreciated, but not required.

To learn more about Rochester’s local sales tax renewal, please visit https://www.renewrochester.org/