Jackson will focus request to lawmakers

The Clarion-Ledger, 12/26/8

In recent years, the city of Jackson has asked state lawmakers to approve a long list of bills.

But in 2009, Jackson officials likely will try a new strategy – ask for one big thing and work hard to get it.

The city is planning to push for the right to levy a 1 percent sales tax on most goods and services. Officials expect the tax would bring in between $21 million and $25 million a year for use on infrastructure improvements, law enforcement and economic development.

“There seemed to be a question last year as to what Jackson really wanted,” Councilwoman Margaret Barrett-Simon said. “We’re making it really clear this time.”