Sales Tax Increase Proposal Introduced in Little Rock During State of the City Address

Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. introduced his sales tax increase proposal during the State of the City Address last week. The increase intends to address the city’s priorities without the financial assistance from the COVID-19 pandemic relief.

On March 6, Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. delivered his State of the City Address (SOCA) at Parkview Arts and Science Magnet High School. Around 150 people watched the SOCA in person and Little Rock’s YouTube account gained around 160 more views.

According to Hennigan, the highlight of Scott Jr.’s SOCA was his announcement and introduction of the “Little Rock Forward” sales tax. The Little Rock Forward is reportedly a sales tax increase that intends to address the city’s priorities without the financial assistance from the COVID-19 pandemic relief funds.

READ ALSO: FairTax Act: A Bill To Establish National Sales Tax

Objectives of the Sales Tax Increase

According to Counts, Scott Jr. announced that part of the sales tax increase is intended to be allocated to the establishment of an indoor sports complex in the War Memorial Park. Unlike the 2021 SOCA, Scott Jr. did not specify how much of an increase he wanted to materialize. This is because Scott’s 2021 proposal of a 1 centavo increase has been rejected.

Nonetheless, the votes of the Board of Directors of Little Rock is needed to forward the sales tax increase proposal to the voters. In addition, Scott reiterated several concerns from his previous speeches. The COVID-19 pandemic and the escalation in violence was also discussed along with police support, job growth, and funding for community programs.

READ ALSO: Northwest Arkansas Sales Tax Revenue Increased By 12.29%, January Report Says