Franklin County Approves Sales Tax Increase

Faced with cuts in state aid and the need for new facilities, Franklin County officials Tuesday voted to increase the county's portion of the sales tax. By unanimous vote, commissioners raised the rate point-5 percent. The increase will put Franklin County's combined sales tax at 7.5 percent. It would take effect January 1st. This is the first sale tax increase in eight years. Commissioners pledged in 2005 not impose another hike for six years. To break down the increase, .25 percent is permanent and will be used for operating revenue. The remaining .25 percent is a five-year temporary tax hike slated to pay for building projects including a new county jail and morgue. The increases are expected to generate $100 million a year.