By Darren DaRonco | Arizona Daily Star
Tucson businesses might have to fork over a little more next year to pay for a state- mandated tax change.
The City Council voted 5-2 Tuesday to tentatively approve a new $20 annual fee on businesses to offset some of the expenses associated with the upcoming change in state tax law.
Beginning in January 2015, the state will take over sales-tax collection from cities.
The switch could rack up extra costs to cities in overtime, software purchases and public outreach, said city Finance Director Silvia Amparano.
To recoup these costs, the state allowed cities to charge businesses up to $50 for a tax license fee.
The city staff recommended the $20 amount to raise about $500,000 next year.
