Melcher-Dallas residents will have the chance to go to the polls on Tuesday for a special election, with just one issue on the ballot…concerning the use of LOST funds.

Right now, the city’s Local Option Sales Tax revenue is earmarked strictly for road improvements; the referendum asks voters to approve expanding the usage of this money to cover the removal of derelict buildings in town.

The City Council says without the money generated by the one percent sales tax, the city would have to take out a loan to cover the cost of building removal.

The referendum as worded would allow Melcher-Dallas to use the funds for public safety, parks, economic development, upkeep and improvement of city-owned properties and any other lawful purpose.