Common Cents for Sarasota County today launched its first television advertisement in support of the Penny Tax referendum that is up for renewal this November. The ad specifically highlights the critical role the one-cent sales tax plays in providing law enforcement and first responders with the tools necessary to perform their jobs. The 30 second video advertisement, entitled “Did You Know”, offers a glimpse into how penny tax dollars improve public safety, with a personal appeal from Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt Hoffman urging voters to support the referendum. In addition to police and first responders, the non-partisan referendum provides critical funding for water quality, the environment and major community needs including the hardening of hurricane shelters. The video launches as Sarasota County citizens recover from the damage left by Hurricane Ian, where law enforcement and first responders have been deeply relied on since the storm made landfall on September 28th. In addition to the video’s feature on first responders, it notes that tourists and visitors pay for over 20 percent of all the funds collected by the penny, which can also be seen in an independent study. The referendum passed with more than 66 percent of the vote the last time it was up for renewal with the Sarasota Herald-Tribune calling it a “solid-gold performer.” The advertisement will be running on broadcast and cable throughout Sarasota County. Proceeds from the penny tax can ONLY be used for major capital projects and infrastructure improvements. It has paid for numerous projects throughout the county and in every one of its cities, ranging from equipment and facilities for police and fire agencies to water quality improvements to beach renourishments and road repairs.

To view the video click here.