Updated Results Highlight Support for Seasonal Tax Proposal

The latest preliminary results from Juneau’s October 2026 municipal election indicate growing support among residents for the introduction of a new seasonal sales tax beginning next year. As reported by local officials Friday night, updated counts show that yes votes on Proposition C—which seeks to introduce a 1 percent seasonal tax—continue to hold a strong lead by more than 1,300 votes.

Seasonal Sales Tax Designed to Capitalize on Summer Tourism

Proposition C aims to implement an additional 1% sales tax during Juneau's peak tourism months. Proponents argue that it will allow the city to benefit from the estimated 1.7 million cruise passengers who visit each summer, helping to boost funding for local recreational facilities and programs. Opponents, however, maintain that the tax could be burdensome for residents and unnecessary for the city’s budget.

Mixed Results on Other Tax Propositions

While the seasonal tax maintains steady support, the updated municipal election results show a split among voters on two other tax propositions. Proposition A, which would renew a 3% temporary tax that has been in place since 1983, appears headed for easy passage. Nearly 80% of voters have supported the renewal, with yes votes leading by over 5,600 ballots. This tax renewal funds fundamental city services.

Proposition B, on the other hand, is failing as votes against the measure lead by roughly 530. This proposition would have reversed a tax cut enacted in the previous election, specifically raising the cap on the local property tax (mill rate). The outcome suggests voters are hesitant to roll back recent property tax reductions.

Juneau Assembly and School Board Races

In the Juneau Assembly races, incumbent Paul Kelly is on track for reelection to his areawide seat, capturing more than 60% of votes and outpacing closest competitor Brad Sapp by more than 2,500 votes. James McCants, another candidate for the same seat, has received 503 votes so far.

District 1 candidate Mila Cosgrove is running unopposed, having collected over 6,700 votes, in addition to around 479 write-in tallies. In District 2, Joyce Nivens is currently ahead of her main challenger, Malachi Thorington, by over 580 votes, with Karla Hart and David Morris trailing.

For the school board election, incumbents Britteny Cioni-Haywood and David Noon are leading in the contest for two open seats. Challenger Christine Johnson lags behind by nearly 1,800 votes.

Turnout and Certification Timeline

Voter turnout as of Tuesday's results stood just under 35%. The current count, which represents about 95% of all ballots according to the city clerk’s office, is not expected to change dramatically before official certification. Remaining preliminary counts are anticipated in the coming weeks, with final certification scheduled for October 20.

Outlook for Final Results

Though minor changes may occur as more ballots are processed, the trends seen in these municipal election results are likely to hold. As of the latest count, Juneau voters appear willing to support some targeted tax increases—such as the seasonal tax—while holding the line on property tax rates and maintaining essential city funding through tax renewal measures.

Source: ktoo.org.