Copyright Lewiston Morning Tribune
The Clarkston City Council kicked off its budget process Monday night with a public hearing on 2026 taxes and revenues. A 1% property tax increase is part of the plan, along with a projected boost in sales tax revenue. According to the clerk’s forecast, the city is poised to bring in about $3 million from sales taxes next year. Clarkston relies heavily on retail sales to fund city operations, said Clerk Rachel Frost. For the last five years, that revenue source has continued to climb in a positive direction. The public safety sales tax, which goes directly to the new Asotin County Jail, is estimated to accrue about $545,000, depending on variable economic conditions, such as inflation and consumer spending. Gambling tax revenues have slightly increased since 2023, Frost said, and the major source is from card games at Lancer Lanes Casino. At this time, gambling adds about $60,000 to the city’s coffers each year. A proposed tax increase is under discussion by the city council. Two more public hearings will be conducted during the budget process. A preliminary hearing is set for Nov. 10 at City Hall. At the start of Monday’s meeting, the council went into executive session to discuss negotiations. After about 40 minutes, no action was taken, and the regular meeting resumed. The audience was mostly made up of high school students who are in a government education class, and no public comments were made. More information on the city’s current expense fund, revenue forecast and 2026 budget is available at City Hall, 829 Fifth St. A budget workshop is planned for 5:30 p.m. Nov. 5. Sandaine can be reached at kerris@lmtribune.com.
