After the Local Option Economic Development Sales Tax (67.1305, RSMo) is approved by the voters, the municipality levying the tax must create an Economic Development Tax Board.

This board will be made up of representatives from employees:

• SCHOOL DISTRICT (2)
• MONROE CITY CITIZENS (2)
• COUNTIES (1 FROM EACH)

The purposes of this Board are to (1) develop and consider economic development plans, initiate economic development projects and designations of economic development areas, (2) hold public hearings, and (3) make recommendations to the governing body of the municipality concerning economic development plans, economic development projects and designations of economic development areas. However, the governing body of the municipality levying the Local Option Economic Development Sales Tax (67.1305, RSMo) will make all final funding determinations.

Before making any recommendations to the governing body of the municipality, the Economic Development Tax Board must hold public hearings concerning the proposed economic development plans and programs, economic development project or designation of an economic development area.

Approved uses:

No revenue generated by the tax authorized in this section shall be used for any retail development project. At least twenty percent of the revenue generated by the tax authorized in this section shall be used solely for projects directly related to long-term economic development preparation, including but not limited to, the following:

1. Acquisition of land;
2. Installation of infrastructure for industrial or business parks;
3. Improvement of water and wastewater treatment capacity;
4. Extension of streets;
5. Providing matching dollars for state or federal grants;
6. Marketing;
7. Construction and operation of job training and education facilities;
8. Providing grants and low-interest loans to companies for job training, equipment acquisition, site development, and infrastructure. Not more than twenty-five percent of the revenue generated may be used annually for administrative purposes, including staff and facility costs;
9. Historic Development;
10. Economic development strategic planning; and
11. Workforce housing, child care, and other related projects.

The Economic Development Tax Board and the governing body of the municipality levying the Local Option Economic Development Sales Tax (67.1305, RSMo).

Duties:

• Hold public hearings on economic development plans and projects
• Recommend use of tax revenues outside of jurisdiction
• Present annual report to the governing body
  
  
  

COMMITTE MEMBERS

• Tony DeGrave (Chair)
• Don Schnelten
• Allie Bennett
• Brad Pfanner (Treasurer)
• Loree Quinn
• Tonya Pryor (Secretary)
• Mary Kendrick

In The News...

Monroe City Economic Empowerment Committee Hosts First Town Hall Meeting on Proposition A

Monroe City, MO—The Monroe City Economic Empowerment Committee held its first town hall meeting on March 19, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the High School Cafeteria, providing residents with information about Proposition A and answering questions from the community. This was the first of two scheduled meetings, with the next one set for April 2 at the same time and location.

Proposition A, which will appear on the April 8, 2025, ballot, proposes a half-cent sales tax to fund economic development initiatives in Monroe City. The revenue from this tax would be used for long-term economic growth, including infrastructure improvements, land development, business incentives, job training programs, and workforce housing. The measure follows the Local Option Economic Development Sales Tax (67.1305, RSMo), which requires the establishment of an Economic Development Tax Board if approved by voters.

Over 25 citizens and stakeholders attended the meeting, engaging in a thoughtful discussion about the potential benefits and responsibilities tied to the proposition. Attendees posed questions about the specifics of the statute, particularly how much of the funds must be allocated to long-term economic development preparations. Committee members explained that at least 20% of the revenue must be used for infrastructure, business park development, strategic planning, marketing, and other long-term initiatives that foster sustainable growth.

There was also interest in how Monroe City has historically invested in economic development and how the proposed tax might compare to past efforts. Committee members emphasized that Proposition A would allow the city to take a more proactive approach to attracting businesses and supporting local entrepreneurs. They noted that similar initiatives in other Missouri communities have led to increased job opportunities, improved public infrastructure, and a more vibrant business climate.

The committee members leading the discussion include Tony DeGrave (Chair), Don Schnelten, Allie Bennett, Brad Pfanner (Treasurer), Loree Quinn, Tonya Pryor (Secretary), and Mary Kendrick. They emphasized that the tax would cost residents just 5 cents on a $10 purchase, with visitors and non-residents contributing to the funds when they shop in Monroe City.

"Proposition A is an opportunity for Monroe City to take control of its economic future," said committee member Allie Bennett. "This tax isn’t about increasing costs for residents—it’s about investing in our community, attracting businesses, and ensuring sustainable growth. The more we invest in Monroe City, the more opportunities we create for everyone. It’s a chance to build something lasting for future generations."

Residents are encouraged to attend the second town hall meeting on April 2 at 6:30 PM at the High School Cafeteria for further discussion and to ask any remaining questions. Committee members will continue to provide details on how the funds would be managed and distributed, and they welcome input from the community.

For more information, citizens can contact Allie Bennett at 573-407-4451 or Loree Quinn at loree.quinn@alliantbank.com. Additional details can also be found on the Downtown Monroe City website.



The committee urges all residents to vote on April 8, 2025, and support Proposition A to help ensure the city's continued growth and prosperity.