Denver Considers New Sales Tax to Address Affordable Housing

Proposed 0.5% sales tax increase aims to fund 20,000 affordable housing units, doubling current capacity.

The new tax could generate $100 million annually for affordable housing projects.
Mayor Mike Johnston emphasizes the need for housing for essential workers like teachers and firefighters.
Existing dedicated sales taxes have raised $1.1 billion for various initiatives since 2006.
Concerns arise over the city's ability to spend current tax revenues efficiently.
Council members debate the impact of higher sales tax rates on local businesses.