Gilbert’s Tax Hikes for Pickleball Courts: The Goldwater Institute has filed a lawsuit against the Town of Gilbert, Arizona, arguing that recent tax increases to fund recreational projects, including pickleball courts, are unconstitutional.
New Taxes Fund Pickleball Courts
In October 2024, the Gilbert Town Council approved several tax hikes, including a sales tax increase, a higher bed tax on lodging, and a new use tax on small online vendors.
These taxes are intended to finance various infrastructure projects, such as pickleball courts, splash pads, and a ropes course. Town officials claimed the projects were urgent, but critics argue the tax hikes place an unfair burden on businesses and consumers.
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Legal and Economic Concerns
The Arizona Constitution prohibits new taxes on services, a category that includes hospitality and construction contracting. The Home Builders Association of Central Arizona has voiced opposition, warning of rising costs for taxpayers.
“Gilbert officials are trampling on their own constituents’ rights with no regard for the consequences their illegal actions will have on taxpayers and homebuyers.” – (HBACA CEO Jackson Moll)
“The Arizona Constitution is clear: increasing taxes on services, including on construction contracting, is unlawful.” – (Jackson Moll)
Jonathan Barth, a local teacher and short-term rental host, also expressed frustration.
“This tax hike makes it all the more difficult to make ends meet in Gilbert.” – (Jonathan Barth)
“The Arizona Constitution bans tax hikes on services for a reason – why are our own leaders ignoring the law?” – (Jonathan Barth)
Holding Local Governments Accountable
The lawsuit highlights growing tensions between recreational development and fiscal responsibility, raising questions about how communities should fund amenities like pickleball courts while adhering to constitutional safeguards.
News in Brief: Gilbert’s Tax Hikes for Pickleball Courts
The Goldwater Institute is suing Gilbert, Arizona, over tax hikes funding recreational projects, including pickleball courts, claiming they violate the state constitution. New taxes on sales, lodging, and online vendors sparked backlash from businesses and residents. Critics argue the increases burden taxpayers unfairly, while the lawsuit seeks to hold the town accountable for overstepping constitutional limits.
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