The Parsons Public Safety Sales Tax measure was defeated as the unofficial final vote was 1,333 no votes to 881 yes votes.

The City sales tax was proposed in an attempt to raise revenue to relieve budget issues facing the city. The police and fire plan to caucus with City Hall to evaluate needs against resources and develop a strategic vision moving forward. Needs like fire truck replacement, upgrading the emergency radio system, police vehicles, and safety equipment will have to be evaluated.

In a Facebook post, the Parsons Police Department says stopping the bleeding of losing police and firefighters to better-paid agencies is of extreme concern. They say without a career workforce they are grinding up good employees who are working excessive overtime with little time off. The PPD said that is not sustainable and it’s not efficient.

The Parsons Police Department would like to hear feedback from the community. Drop them a note at clamb@parsonspd.com and let them know what’s truly important to you from the fire and police departments in Parsons.