County of Wayne issued the following announcement on Oct. 17.
Voters in Wayne County will decide during the 2022 general election how they want to fund important services such as the Sheriff's Office, EMS, Department of Social Services, Health Department, all Library branches, Senior Center and Services on Aging, Veterans Services, and school safety improvements. Sales tax revenue allows the Commissioners to lessen the burden on property taxes. This sales tax referendum excludes gas, prescription medication, and non-prepared foods or groceries. Remember-- sales tax applies to everyone, not just property owners. When you visit other counties and spend money, you’re already paying this increased sales tax. Duplin, Sampson, Wake, Orange, etc. These areas all collect 7% or more.
A vote FOR the local sales and use tax:
- Increases the sales tax rate from 6.75% to 7%
- Shares the tax burden across anyone purchasing goods (excluding gas, prescription medication, and non-prepared foods or groceries) in Wayne County
- Increases the level of service Wayne County is able to provide. This funds critical services like: Sheriff's Office, EMS, Department of Social Services, Health Department, all Library branches, Senior Center and Services on Aging, and Veterans Services. In addition to these services, school safety and other improvements will receive additional funding.
- Allows the Board of Commissioners to possibly lower property tax rates
- Generates approximately $2.8 million per year in revenue for Wayne County. This sales tax will raise the equivalent of a 3 cent property tax increase.
- Keeps the sales tax rate at 6.75%
- No change in level of service in Wayne County
- Property taxes may increase in future years to fund existing services
- A 1 cent property tax increase generates $900,000
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