Hello, Picklers!
In the sun-soaked state of Arizona, where pickleball courts are beloved and the cost of living can be a struggle, a recent decision by the Gilbert Town Council has sent shockwaves through the community. This week, the Goldwater Institute filed a lawsuit to challenge an unprecedented tax hike aimed at funding amenities—including new pickleball courts! While the intention may sound appealing, the implications for local residents and businesses are anything but sweet.
This story was reported on the AZ Big Media Website: https://azbigmedia.com/business/goldwater-sues-to-stop-gilbert-pickleball-tax
In October 2024, Gilbert town officials voted to raise the sales tax on all goods and services, hike the bed tax for hotels and short-term rentals, and introduce a brand-new use tax for small online vendors making less than $100,000 in annual sales in Arizona. The reasoning? To support “critical infrastructure projects” like the aforementioned pickleball courts, splash pads, a ropes course, and a bridge designed to make a statement. Sounds nice, right? But there’s a catch—the costs of these taxes will ultimately fall heavily on the shoulders of Gilbert’s residents and businesses, making life a little harder for everyone.
Jonathan Barth, a local teacher and father of five who supplements his income by renting out a bungalow, expressed his frustration: “This tax hike makes it all the more difficult to make ends meet in Gilbert.” With lodging prices set to rise due to the bed tax and increased costs for construction and services, many residents are left wondering how much more they can handle.
One of the most troubling aspects of this tax hike is its legality. The Arizona Constitution specifically prohibits new taxes or tax increases on services—a category that covers numerous industries, including hospitality and construction. Jonathan Barth poignantly asked, “The Arizona Constitution bans tax hikes on services for a reason—why are our own leaders ignoring the law?”
The Home Builders Association of Central Arizona (HBACA) has joined the chorus of voices against these tax increases. CEO Jackson Moll voiced concern for the construction industry, stating, “Gilbert officials are trampling on their own constituents’ rights with no regard for the consequences their illegal actions will have on taxpayers and homebuyers.”
Gilbert isn’t an isolated incident. Across Arizona, many local governments seem to be pushing the boundaries of their authority, often at the expense of their constituents. The Goldwater Institute is taking a stand against this trend, holding local governments accountable for their missteps. They’ve achieved victories in cities like Phoenix and Tucson by challenging restrictive regulations and bureaucratic measures impacting businesses’ pathways to success.
As the pickleball community watches this situation unfold, we must remember that local government officials are meant to serve and represent their communities—not impose burdensome taxes that jeopardize our financial stability and way of life.
Stay tuned for updates as the Goldwater Institute takes on Gilbert’s pickleball tax! This case isn’t just about funding a new court; it’s about standing up for our rights as citizens and making sure our voices are heard. After all, pickleball is not just a game; it’s a community, and one that deserves fair treatment.
Until next time, keep on playing—and advocating for fairness!
Let’s Pickle!
Mikey “Sleeves” Sliwa
Source: AZ Big Media
https://azbigmedia.com/business/goldwater-sues-to–stop-gilbert-pickleball-tax