In Nisswa, there’s been discussion about pursuing a 0.5% local option sales tax to fund park improvements. How would it work? First, the City Council must pass a resolution supporting the measure. Next, it would go to the state Legislature, where our representatives would advance it for approval in St. Paul. Only then, if all hurdles are passed, could it return to Nisswa for a final council resolution, placing it on the 2026 ballot for residents to decide.

Some proponents rely on a University of Minnesota study presented to the council in November 2024, estimating the tax could generate roughly $655,000 per year, with about 65% coming from visitors. While the idea of others paying for a “free park” may sound appealing, the data behind this projection has serious gaps. A Star Tribune artic

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