The business group said today that Commission President David Carrington and Commissioner Jimmie Stephens met with the executive committee to ask for support of legislative initiatives being pushed to help stabilize county finances. The loss of the county occupational tax has threatened a financial meltdown.
"The loss of the occupational tax and business license tax have reduced the county's general fund by more than $73 million per year." BBA Chairman James McManus said in a statement. "Our executive committee realizes that tough decisions must be made. However, we are supportive of the commission's efforts to put Jefferson County back on a sustainable financial footing."
The BBA said its conditional support includes various approaches currently being considered by the commission. These include replacement taxes, such as business license or occupational taxes that would be capped; the prospect of home rule with limitations on the time to impose taxes and the amount of taxes collected; and the potential for un-earmarking various sources of the county's revenue.
McManus added that the BBA will continue to monitor the commission's proposals to ensure they reflect the interests of the business community, the statement said.
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