This article originally appeared in the Election print issue, in stands November 2024. It has not been updated and some information may be out of date.
Since its approval in 1996, Salt Lake County residents have continued to reauthorize the Zoo, Arts and Parks (ZAP) tax, including in the 2024 Utah election.
What is the Zoo, Arts and Parks Tax?
The ZAP tax appeared on this year’s ballot for the 2024 Utah election. The ZAP program was first created in 1993 by the state Legislature. If voters approved, there would be a tenth of a percentage point increase on the sales tax. This would fund privately owned botanical, recreational and zoological organizations. However, in 1996, the Legislature changed the program so that tax could also benefit public-owned organizations as well. For Salt Lake County residents, that means when you pay sales tax, one penny for every $10 you spend goes to the community with grants that support over 200 arts and cultural organizations.
For the 2024 Utah election, the ZAP tax was shown on the Utah voter’s ballot. Utah residents voted for the ZAP tax again. This allowed the tax to be renewed for another 10 years to support the arts and cultural community.
The Importance of ZAP
The core mission and value of the ZAP tax is to enhance the art, historical, cultural and recreational centers of Salt Lake County. ZAP has funded organizations that provide a community for everyone. It is not limited to any specific age group.
The ZAP program supports Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation, helping provide children with free passes to county rec centers. Utah seniors can enjoy free performances by Heart and Soul. Many families can get discounted admission to the Hogle Zoo, the Natural History Museum of Utah and The Living Planet Aquarium, as well as free or discounted screenings from the Sundance Institute, Utah Film Center and Salt Lake Film Society.
Students can gain an educational yet enjoyable experience through programs such as the Utah Symphony, Repertory Dance Theatre and Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company. The ZAP program has also enhanced the diversity in Utah, with free festivals such as the Living Traditions Festival, Nihon Matsuri Festival and Utah Asian Festival.
The ZAP program not only provides for arts and culture around Salt Lake City but also allows people to enjoy the beautiful outdoors that Utah has to offer. Through the ZAP program, 42 parks and trails are maintained, like the Flight Park in Draper or the Oquirrh Park in Kearns.
When in need of a run or a walk with friends or family, ZAP has ensured we can enjoy our outdoor leisure on the Jordan Trail or the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.
Depending on what district you live in the Salt Lake area, it may be easier to access some events compared to others. With ZAP primarily funding events and organizations in District 1 of Salt Lake County Council, the majority of events can be accessed in Salt Lake City, such as the Eastern Arts, The Salt Lake Film Society, Dance Theater Coalition and more.
A Continuing Success
The ZAP tax has been successful ever since its introduction. It’s no lie, looking at the numbers: according to zapisyou.org, over 8 million people benefit from the ZAP program. That includes attendees to arts and culture activities, events and performances.
The ZAP program not only provides our favorite activities to the community but also brings people together to share a passion. Over 24,000 people volunteer for ZAP-funded organizations, and we wouldn’t be able to enjoy the community without them helping make the ZAP program go around.
With the ZAP tax being reauthorized in Utah, we can still enjoy the arts and culture in Salt Lake. This is all thanks to the Utah residents. Whether it’s the Utah Chinese Association, Tracy Aviary or Ballet West, none of these organizations would be thriving without the help of the Salt Lake community. Without the ZAP tax, the culture and arts would not be as bright and blooming as it is today.
