City-County Tax Vote Delay

Supporters of an increase of the sales tax in Jefferson County and Pine Bluff have put off a proposed election on the move until next year.

The measure would authorize a 0.625% sales tax for the city and a separate 0.375% county sales tax for economic development. The taxes would overlap in Pine Bluff.

The proposal had been set for a place on the Nov. 2 ballot, but plans are now to delay the election until Feb. 8, 2011.

Proponents said the delay would give them more time to present their case to voters on the need for the higher tax rate. City and county officials have agreed to support both proposals.

If approved by voters, the additional sales tax is expected to generate $4.5 million for Pine Bluff and $3.4 million for Jefferson County.

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