A controversial tax increase proposition is officially defeated tonight in Stephenson County.

Stephenson County government hopes for additional revenue to fund its sheriff's department and other public safety services ended tonight.

The tax proposal was dismissed in committee and the county board agrees with the decision. The original proposal calls for a half percent increase in sales tax across Stephenson County.

After the referendum was defeated by a 3 to 1 vote a month ago the idea went back to committee to be discussed. It was there that the tax proposal was first denied a November rebirth.

Tonight Stephenson County Board Chairman John Blum brought the issue to the board, but the board agreed with the committee's decision.

The public property and safety committee chairman says it was shot down for good reasons.

"We didn't think we'd have the support because we can't use county funds to advertise and get the word out to the people about the safety tax. So we decided it wouldn't be a good idea to put it back on the ballot," said Forrest Senn.

Stephenson County Sheriff David Snyders was unavailable for comment but Senn says he and his department along with all other county departments have been performing admirably while enduring a shrinking budget.

(Chip Brewster is available via email AND facebook... feel free to shoot him a message or friend him at any time)