2012 expected to surpass last year’s 1.3 percent rise in sales-tax revenues
By Lesley Wright
The Arizona Republic
After hitting a low in 2010, sales-tax revenue has steadily increased in Surprise for the past two years, with construction making an unexpected comeback.
“Construction is looking even better than we thought it would,” said Cathy Gleason, Surprise’s interim chief financial officer. “This year will be better than last year, and it’s coming back stronger this year.”
Revenue from sales taxes is a key driver for the city’s annual budget. It makes up nearly 36 percent of the city’s operating budget, which pays for police, fire, parks and other services. The revenue also illustrates how well the city attracts businesses, restaurants, tourists and new residents.
Sales taxes are collected from several kinds of businesses, including utilities, construction, retail, real estate, rentals, restaurants, bars, hotels and entertainment establishments. The city budget is planned according to fiscal years, which run from July 1 to June 30.
Also:
It’s no surprise Surprise weathered the recession/Rose Law Group Reporter
Construction boom defining Mesa’s future/The Arizona Republic
