By Tom Weber, KWMU
St. Louis, MO – St. Louis City voters might get to decide whether to raise their property taxes to raise money for community bands.
Missouri has long a law law on the books that lets local cities levy property taxes for community bands that play free concerts.
St. Louis has never levied such a tax, but Alderman Stephen Conway has introduced legislation that would put that question to voters.
He admits he's not sure such a tax increase would get enough support but is willing to hear from supporters.
"They have to show the types of performances, the parks they're going to be playing at, and that they have the support of other organizations here in the metropolitan area," Conway notes.
"If that's the case, the Board of Aldermen would be convinced to go ahead and put it on the ballot."
Conway says the Compton Heights Concert Band came to him with the idea, but other community bands could also be eligible for funds.
The question is currently before the Board of Alderman and, if it's passed in time, could go to city voters in April.