CAPE'S STREET SALES TAX SHOULD BE EXTENDED

Cape Girardeau City officials will make the rounds of community groups and service clubs in coming weeks to press their case for a proposed extension of the city's transportation sales tax. The centerpiece of their pitch: We kept our promises the first time around. Give us the chance to continue the good work.

The city hopes voters have noticed the extensive road improvements throughout Cape Girardeau and will agree to extend the existing half-cent sales tax -- slated to end Dec. 31 -- for another five years. When voters head to the polls Aug. 8, they should cast their ballot in favor of extending the tax.

In 1995, voters established the tax by a 68-percent majority. The funds were strictly earmarked for the city's Transportation Trust Fund. In the time since the fund was established, the improvements to city roads and streets have been evident. Traffic runs smoother, streets are safer and gravel roads have been virtually eliminated.

However, much remains to be done. Having good, safe roads is one of the keys to continued economic health in any community. The extension would raise another $20.7 million over the next five years, and the city has a good list of planned projects prepared. Voters will be voting for continued growth and improved development with a vote for the tax extension.

The city has proved capable in developing a long-term plan for street improvement that is financially realistic and allows significant opportunity for input from the general public. City officials have earned the trust of residents and deserve the opportunity to expand on their record of delivering much-needed road improvements.