Sales Tax News - December 8, 2017

North Myrtle Beach to Hold Referendum on a New Sales Tax

The North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina City Council approved a referendum on a new sales tax that would funnel millions of dollars into the chamber of commerce for advertising.  Residents will vote on the Tourism Development Fee on March 6, 2018.  If approved, the sales tax would increase by one percent and would be only the second city to raise the taxes for destination promotion.  The first city to do so was Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. 

Okaloosa County is Considering Raising Sales Tax

The Okaloosa County Commission is considering approving an ordinance that would raise the sales tax by a half-cent.  They are considering a mail-in ballot special election on April 10, which voters would have the opportunity to approve the five-year tax.  The tax would go into effect on January 1, 2019 if approved by voters and would remain through December 31, 2023.  The new sales tax is expected to raise $17 million annually, and the money would go towards governmental improvements and infrastructure work.

Manhattan City Will Vote To Levy Sales Tax for Parks and Recreation

The Manhattan City Commission will vote to levy a quarter-cent sales tax for parks and recreation.  The residents of Manhattan previously approved a quarter-cent sales tax in November to help pay for indoor recreation centers and park improvements.  The sales tax rate will not raise because the commission voted to end the current quarter-cent "quality of life" sales tax.  The new tax will start on April 1, after the current tax ends on March 31.