Joel Gillie, Wayne County public affairs director, provided a presentation on the one-quarter of one cent sales tax resolution that the Board has explored. This sales tax resolution would change the sales tax from 6.75% to 7% and would allow the Commissioners to lessen the burden on property owners through property taxes. This increase would exclude gas, prescription medication, and non-prepared foods or groceries. 

The additional sales tax revenue will raise $2.8 million for county service improvements and school needs. By comparison, a 1 cent property tax increase only raises an additional $900,000. Voters will decide on the local option sales tax this November during the general election. One big question is how much will this cost me when I make purchases? A $4 purchase will cost an additional penny, a $100 purchase will cost an additional quarter, and a $400 purchase will cost an additional dollar.

A motion was approved unanimously for the resolution placing a one-quarter of one cent local option sales tax on the November 8, 2022, General Election Ballot in Wayne County.