Kennett alderman walks out of meeting after tax idea voted down

KENNETT, Mo. -- Visibly upset with the objection to his proposed sales tax, Kennett Alderman Mark Ellis walked out of the council meeting Tuesday.

A one-eighth of 1 percent sales tax, which was proposed by Ellis, was denied by his fellow council members following a heated discussion.

Ellis had proposed that the tax increase be placed on the ballot for the November election; however, Alderman Tracy Smith questioned that proposal.

"Is the amount of the sales tax going to just the fire and police departments?" Smith asked. "If so, I have a problem with that. I should be a general sales tax."

"Yes, it will go to just the fire and police departments," Mayor Roger Wheeler said.

"That is not how I introduced the proposal, it is for the fire and police departments to operate," Ellis said.

After more questions regarding how the money would be spent, Wheeler clarified it by saying, "The money, as written, can be used for anything including vehicles, equipment, personnel and salaries."

A vote was taken and the sales-tax increase was not approved. At that moment, Ellis gathered his things and left the meeting.

Following Ellis' departure, the regular meeting continued as planned.