Sales tax revenue

While the national economy is still struggling, Cape Girardeau County is holding its own.

Sales tax figures recently released show a slight increase from last year. The January through October period of this year saw a 2 percent increase for both the county and city of Cape Girardeau as compared to the same period in 2009. The city of Jackson saw a 0.3 percent increase.

While these are modest improvements, it's a positive sign considering the state of Missouri is nearly 2 percent behind in its sale tax collections from last year.

Cape Girardeau could also see further increases in sales tax revenue with the recent opening of T.J. Maxx, a well-known retailer. The Christmas season should also be an extra boost for our local economy.

Thank you to all those who work to make Cape Girardeau and the surrounding area a shopping hub.

While these recent figures are positive signs, there is still room for improvement. Cape Girardeau County's unemployment rate has been above 7 percent since June -- 7.5 percent in September.

It's critical that citizens communicate with their elected leaders at all levels of government the importance of supporting legislation that will increase private sector growth, therefore producing long-term employment opportunities.