30 Years Ago – May 27, 1983
The postage-paid return cards that were mailed to all registered voters along with a letter from the commissioners asking for input on the proposed one percent county sales tax and motor vehicle use tax asked people if they approved or disapproved and provided a space for comment. As of Wednesday, the cards were running in favor of the tax. The tally was 439 for the tax, 274 against it and 3 undecided-a total of 716. There were 1,600 plus letters sent to residents. Some of the comments under the “Approve” column: “Fine idea. I try not to buy anything in this county anyway.” “ Charge each dog owner $100 for each dog he has running loose, and you will be the richest county in state.” “Anything to prevent increase in property tax.” “I agree we need to tax some of the tourists. But the overstaffed courthouse needs to be reduced also.” “Would like to know what services you would decrease: We don’t get much for our taxes now.” “My only request is that the category of ‘new or expanded services’ be expanded to include a training program for the snowplow driver who frustrates my life throughout the winter.” Some of the comments in the “Disapprove” column: “Figure out some other way to rob us. You’re doing great so far.” “An efficient county government could save more $$ than sales tax can provide. Stop waste. Review expenses.” “The privilege of living in Gilpin County is beginning to cost more than it’s worth.” “Perhaps a tollgate would be appropriate.” “I have never paid so much and received so little.” “Show me services for what we pay and I’ll listen to your request.”
Though the brewery is only 20 miles away, Coors is not the number-one choice of beer drinkers in Central City. However, if a group of businessmen, the City of Central, and Coors get their way, that will soon change. Customers in local bars will no longer be hearing, “Would you like a beer?” but will instead be asked, “Would you like a Coors?” The push for Coors is for a good cause. The city may get a new $65,000 to $70,000 fire truck, or at least part of one, out of the deal. For every case of Coors sold in an establishment, the owner will donate 25 cents to the fire truck fund. For every case that is sold over and above what was sold last year in the same month, Coors Brewery and Wano Company, the beer distributor, will each chip in 50 cents.
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