City Council Approves Resolution Seeking State Approval for a Local Sales Tax to Fund Memorial Arena Improvements and Wellness Center

The Roseau City Council is exploring a local sales tax to support two major regional projects: the Memorial Arena Rehabilitation and a proposed Roseau Wellness Center.

Why a Local Sales Tax?

• Regional Impact: Both facilities serve a wide area. Roughly 60% of users come from outside city limits.

• Fair Funding: A U of M study shows a 0.5% tax would generate $12.5 million over 30 years, with 60% of that revenue coming from non-city residents—matching the actual usage of the facilities.

• Dedicated Use: These funds are strictly for capital costs and the tax must end ("sunset") once the named projects are fully funded.

What are the next steps? Implementing a local sales tax is a multi-step process. It requires approval from the State Legislature and, ultimately, a city referendum. This means Roseau citizens will have the final say at the ballot box, voting on each project independently.