RACINE COUNTY, Wisconsin. – Racine County residents weigh in on a proposed sales tax.

Racine County is one of only three counties in the state without a sales tax.

Some county leaders say the sales tax is necessary and, if passed, could cost residents about $126 a year, but the community is divided on the issue.

SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines and breaking news alerts via email from FOX6 News

“We say no. We have enough, no more taxes,” said Racine County resident Michael Schrader.

At the Board of Supervisors meeting on Monday, August 12, residents voiced both support and opposition to Racine County’s proposed 0.5 percent sales tax.

“This sales tax is necessary and inevitable. Without it, Racine County will be decades behind,” said Racine County resident Cary Madrigal.

“It makes me cringe that this question is even being asked. That we are not using this tool that 69 other counties, our colleagues, have been using for over 20 years,” said Racine County Executive Thomas Roanhouse.

Roanhouse says if passed, it could bring in $20 million for the county each year. The money, he says, will support important emergency services and could result in significant property tax relief.

“We’ve been working with both arms behind our backs and now we get the chance to swing both arms like everyone else,” Roanhouse added.

The tax would be levied on items such as clothing and computers. Goods such as prescription drugs and medical devices would be exempt.

FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news in the FOX6 News app for iOS or Android.

CEO Thomas Kramer says they also expect an increase in visitors.

“In the background you can hear the highway, all the people driving through … and they stop at one of the travel centers out here. Well, that’s where we’re going to make some money,” Kramer said.

But not everyone is convinced.

“I don’t think now is the right time for this,” said Racine County resident John Gorton.

The board is not expected to vote on the proposal until November. If approved, the sales tax would come into force in April 2025.