County sales tax revenues dip in Feb., still up for 2010

At their meeting Tuesday morning, Feb. 9, Saline County Commissioners reported on sales tax collections.

In February, $66,717.94 was collected, compared to $82,930.43 in January and $68,304.67 in February 2009. For the year, collections are up $2,741.59.

The county law enforcement tax brought in $50,038.27 in February, compared to $62,246.96 in January and $50,741.77 in February 2009.

Courthouse sales tax collections in February totaled $33,663.85, compared to $43,029.73 in January and $1,445.14 in February 2009.

In other business, commissioners approved the six-month wage increase of Austin Hedgepeth, from $11 to $11.83 per hour. He is an employee in the county road and bridge department.

Commissioners also reported on the recent meeting of all Missouri county commissioners in Jefferson City.

Southern District Commissioner Richard "Dick" Hassler said commissioners spoke at the capital, requesting that the state government cease sending unfunded mandates to county governments.

Hassler said the state has also proposed to implement a minimal tax on new construction as a way to help fund county assessors' offices. In November 2009, the state funding per parcel of land was reduced to $4 from $5.99.

Northern District Commissioner Norvelle "Brownie" Brown was also present at the meeting.

Commissioners will meet again Wednesday, Feb. 10, at 9 a.m. in the lower level of the courthouse.

Contact Sydney Stonner at marshallbusiness@socket.net