The five year levy would increase the current rate from 99 cents per one thousand dollars of assessed value to $1.24.

But because a construction bond for the jail is expiring, it would result in an overall savings of 52 cents per thousand dollars of assessed value -- over what they're currently paying.

Jefferson County Sheriff Jim Adkins is hopeful people will approve the measure.

"Now people don't like to hear increase.  They are tired of taxes, everyone's wallet is getting tighter, including mine.  But I'm pretty confident because of the bond going away."

If the measure is defeated, the county plans to ask voters again in May, before the current levy expires next June.