Groups clash over possible penny sales tax

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) – Folks in the Midlands got a first hand look at how a new penny sales tax could affect transportation and the economy.

Citizens for a Greater Midlands held an information session Wednesday morning at the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce.

Officials with the chamber say the benefits of the penny sales tax are multi-faceted.

Dr. Harry Miley, an economic consultant, says, “It improves safety, it improves commuting time. I don’t know about you, but commuting time is important, I don’t like to sit in traffic, so it improves commuting time and makes faster roads.”

Richland County voters will decide on the tax on November 2.

Citizens against the Tax Increase will host an informational meeting on Wednesday, october 20th at 6 PM at the Southeast Branch of the Richland County Library on Garners Ferry Road.

The group opposes the sales tax increase saying an eight percent tax is simply too high.