Sales tax extended in Scott County

Once again, the sales tax in Scott County was approved.

Of 4,292 voters, 2,993 approved the tax and 1,299 voted against it.

"I'm elated," Scott County commissioner Jamie Burger said. "People seemed to be very supportive, but you always wonder when people come to vote."

Tuesday's election included a question about continuing the half-cent sales tax in Scott County, which passed originally in 2008.

"By extending the sales tax, it keeps the county portion [of property taxes] at zero. It will not change current tax obligations," Burger said before the election.

Burger said he believed the tax would pass because of the communication and effort county employees put into explaining it to voters.

Scott County Clerk Rita Milam said the tax is necessary to run the county. While the money isn't earmarked for anything specific, it goes to maintaining and sustaining county buildings and assisting law enforcement, she said.

The tax originally was proposed to build the county jail and since then has helped keep it running.

The county operates on about a $5.2 million budget, Milam said.

Burger and Milam agreed a sales tax is preferable to property taxes, so people can control their own spending.

Before 2008, the county generated between $300,000 and $400,000 in property taxes. After the sales tax passed, Milam said the county brought in about $1.9 million.

While the county will not impose a property tax, property taxes through the school district and cities still will be levied.

"By voting yes, we've guaranteed that voters' property taxes for the county will stay at zero. If sales tax stays in place, we can guarantee completely that county property taxes will not change," Burger said.

Burger cited Lambert's Cafe as one of the largest means of collecting the sales tax, with customers helping support the county.

"By voting yes for this tax, we will be able to keep taxes lower for our residents and have visitors help pay our sales tax," Burger said. "I just want to thank all the Scott County voters who came out today to vote. We really just appreciate their support. Scott County really shined tonight and will be a better place for it."

All election results are unofficial until certified by the county clerk.

smaue@semissourian.com

388-3644