Scott County sees sales tax revenue increase

BENTON, Mo. -- Scott County's sales tax numbers are looking good for the year.

During Thursday's commission meeting, Commissioner Donnie Kiefer reported that there was an increase again in June, adding to the overall growth in sales tax for the year.

This June, receipts were $11,640.49 higher than the same month in 2009. So far, the year 2011 is ahead of 2010 by $36,867.20.

"I'm really not sure what to attribute it to," Kiefer said. "But I think people are just more confident right now."

He did note, however, that vehicle sales are up.

In other action, Barry Cook, administrator at the Scott County Health Department, presented commissioners with a revised estimate received from the Missouri Department of Health to control the mosquito population in their flood-stricken communities

The estimate is now $65,575, although the amount was originally $77,358. These funds will cover supplies and equipment to communities in the counties where the grant is awarded.

"They had more people apply than they thought they would," said Cook. "Everybody got cut to some degree."

Cook noted that no contract has been provided yet, "so nothing is official," and the project is still on hold.

"But as soon as they let me know something, I'll let you know," he said.

Presiding Commissioner Jamie Burger said he and other commissioners have had several questions regarding when the program would begin since information about the program was first released.

Also on Thursday:

-- Commissioners appointed Mike Miller of Scott City to a five-year term on the Enhanced Enterprise Zone. Terry Cole of Miner was reappointed to a five-year term as well.

-- County Collector Mark Hensley announced the tax sale is scheduled for Aug. 22. The first public notice is set to be published on July 21.

"We'll have about 25 bidders or so," said Hensley, noting that typically 150-175 pieces of real estate are up for auction.

Pertinent address:

Benton, MO