Sales Tax News - May 14, 2018

Burnsville Considers Local Sales Tax

Burnsville will look at a local sales tax that is estimated to generate $5.6 million annually.  The local sales tax would have to be approved by voters and require special legislation from state lawmakers.  If the sales tax is approved and passed, Burnsville would be one of 36 Minnesota cities and counties that levy a local sales tax.  A proposed study showed that the local sales tax would help raise money for underfunded economic development efforts and also bring property tax relief.  Burnsville discussed a local sales tax in 2006, but it was quickly dropped. 

Sales Tax Collections in Texas Soars in April

Sales tax revenue in Texas grew by double digits in April thanks to strong growth in the oil and gas sector.  The state collected $2.7 billion last month in tax receipts, which was up more than 13% from April 2017.  Revenue from oil and gas production rose more than 56% last month from $285.1 million in April 2017 to $445.2 million this April.  Retailers in Texas reported a slight decline in sales for April despite the growth in sales tax revenue.

Voters in St. Louis Will Decide on Sales Tax to Support St. Louis Zoo

St. Louis is looking to impose a one-eighth of one percent sales tax to help fund the St. Louis Zoo.  The St. Louis County Council voted 5-2 to place the issue on the ballot, and voters will get the chance to decide on November 6.  St. Louis County voters will receive free admission to a new adventure park added to the zoo if they approve the tax.  Visitors that do not live inside of the county will have to pay an admission fee that has not yet been determined.  The zoo is sitting aside 175 acres for the new safari and wildlife adventure park that will include zip lining and overnight camping.  The remaining 250 acres will be used as a breeding facility for the zoo.