While others are trying to clarify how to properly establish a tax after 15 years, the hospital district board apparently plans to move forward with a vote on the issue Friday.
Judge Executive Ann Melton said Tuesday that an opinion from the Attorney General’s office might not be final by the time the hospital board votes Friday.
The hospital board set the wheels in motion on June 26 to initiate a 3.7 cents tax per $100 assessment, the first time the hospital district attempted to impose a tax since 1997.
Hospital officials said they believe the board has the authority to “reinstate” the tax from 15 years ago without being subject to recall, but admitted the move is unprecedented and the process unclear.
Melton requested the AG opinion and her request was supported unanimously by members of the fiscal court.
Melton said she spoke last week to an attorney with the Kentucky Association of Counties who said he believes the tax will be subject to recall.
To read more on this story, see the July 19 issue of the Community Voice.
