Mississippi cities approve tax increases for parks, tourism

PEARL, Miss. – Voters in two Mississippi cities have approved a sales tax to raise money to provide tourism services.

WLBT-TV in Jackson reported that voters in Pearl have approved a 1 per cent sales tax increase on restaurant bills and a 3 per cent tax on hotel bills.

Pearl Mayor Jake Windham said the money will be used for a new pavilion at a city park. Some money will also be used to improve baseball fields and playground equipment. Windham says that will help with economic development.

In Richland, voters approved a 2 per cent increase on food and beverages and a 3 per cent increase on hotel bills. That money will go to the parks and recreation system and to promote tourism in the area.

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Information from: WLBT-TV, http://www.wlbt.com