KFSK has an open airwaves policy. We encourage the public to express personal opinions, ideas, and creative works. The views and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of KFSK.
The following was submitted by John Murgas and aired on Oct. 5, 2026:
You may review the KFSK open airwaves policy here.
AUDIO TRANSCRIPT:
This is John Murgas. There seems to be a concerted effort through print and radio media to convince voters to approve the sales tax cap from $1,200 to $5,000. This means the maximum sales tax on any sale would increase from $72 to $300 — an increase of $228.
Proponents of the increase are homing in on the visitor industry, implying visitors aren’t paying their fair share, but there is no discussion about the cost to us locals.
For instance, if any of us needs a new 25 horsepower outboard motor, for instance, overnight, the sales tax would increase from $72 to $300. A pretty hefty jump, enough to give pause.
Same if your car or truck needs a new transmission or if you need a new roof or a new heating system or add a bedroom or build a house or if you are a small business and want to reinvest to provide better services to the community.
No one will be hit as hard as the commercial fishermen.
A typical sailer will spend well over $5,000 filling his or her fuel tanks.
Gil netters and trollers will spend over $5,000 for almost all maintenance and repair items from radars to nets.
So if you do vote for the sales tax increase, at least know there is a true cost to we locals that comes with it.
Thanks a lot and be sure to vote.
