Are you willing to pay an extra penny of sales tax in Park County?

The last time local voters were asked that question, they responded with a clear no.

The 1-cent tax proposal in 2012 failed in 24 of the county’s 29 precincts. The proposal saw its highest level of support within the city of Powell, where the tax narrowly passed in four of the city’s five precincts. But in some areas, voters strongly opposed the measure in 2012 — 81 percent of Clark voters said no to the extra penny tax.

With statistics like that, it’s clear a 1-cent tax measure would face an uphill battle in 2016, especially in certain areas of Park County.

But local leaders may attempt to climb that hill again in coming months.

Similar to the proposal in 2012, city and county officials are looking at proposing a 1-cent general purpose tax to fund infrastructure projects and ongoing maintenance.

However, before a 1-cent tax proposal goes on the ballot, they want to hear from you.

A public survey was sent to thousands of residents throughout Park County last week — to every household with a registered voter.

“Nothing is set in stone regarding the 1 percent General Purpose Tax proposal until we gather additional community feedback. We sincerely mean that,” local officials wrote in the survey. “We do not want to pursue another tax proposal if there is not going to be strong county-wide support from our residents. You have the final word. Always.”

We’re glad leaders in Park County and the cities of Powell, Cody and Meeteetse are taking this approach.

It’s important for the public to drive the tax proposal, if one transpires in 2016. That’s why we’re encouraging local residents to respond to the survey.

At 16 questions, the survey isn’t time consuming. An envelope is included with the postage paid, so it won’t cost you a stamp. Also, all responses will remain anonymous and will be independently tallied and reported by a third-party firm.

Responses must be returned by April 22, so you still have a couple weeks to fill it out.

We can’t think of any good reasons not to respond.

The survey provides a place for voters to voice their main concerns about a possible new tax and also asks what projects should be included if a tax is pursued.

Throughout Wyoming, voters in 21 of 23 counties have agreed to pay a fifth-penny sales tax. Park County voters have been among the few in Wyoming to ardently oppose an extra 1-cent tax. Will residents keep that view again this year, or will they be more open to a tax proposal?

That’s what Park County and city leaders want to find out. Take the time to share your 2 cents.