Florence, AZ – The Town of Florence is inviting residents to attend a Community Open House on Wednesday, March 11 from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at the Viney Jones Library & Community Center Lobby (778 N. Main Street) to learn more about Florence Forward, a proposed 1.5 cent sales tax adjustment currently being considered by Town Council.
The proposal would adjust Florence’s local sales tax rate from 2.0 percent to 3.5 percent. Under the proposal, 1 percent would be dedicated exclusively to local transportation improvements, while 0.5 percent would help stabilize essential Town services such as parks, library services, senior services, and public safety operations.
Over the past several years, Florence has experienced significant revenue challenges. The 2020 state prison closure reduced the Town’s population by approximately 3,000 residents and resulted in an estimated loss of more than $3 million across the General Fund, Vehicle License Tax (VLT), and Highway User Revenue Fund (HURF). In addition, the incorporation of San Tan Valley is projected to reduce Florence’s state shared revenues by an additional $1.5 million annually.
At the same time, the funding communities rely on for road construction has not kept pace with rising costs. State fuel taxes that support transportation have not increased since 1990, while construction materials such as asphalt, concrete, aggregate, and steel have increased significantly over the past 35 years. As a result, traditional state shared and transportation-related revenues are no longer sufficient to meet the infrastructure needs of growing communities like Florence.
Florence’s road network continues to carry increasing traffic, particularly along Hunt Highway, and many of our heavily used roadways require widening, resurfacing, preservation, and safety improvements to support residents, commuters, local businesses, and economic development.
The open house will feature informational boards staffed by Town employees who will be available to explain what’s being considered, answer questions, and receive input from residents. Community members are welcome to drop in at any time during the event.
Following the open house, the proposal is currently scheduled to be placed on March 17’s Town Council agenda.
Residents are encouraged to attend, learn more, and participate in the discussion. Additional information is available at: https://www.florenceaz.gov/2026-sales-tax-initiative.