JEFFERSON CITY — Proponents of a new sales tax in Missouri's capital city have begun campaigning in earnest ahead of a vote on the question early next year.
The City Council voted recently to put the half-cent sales tax on the Feb. 7 ballot. The tax would yield $50 million over 10 years for economic development.
KRCG-TV reported that passage of the so-called "Transform Jefferson City" proposal would also let the city borrow $41 million up front. A special board of citizens appointed by Jefferson City and Cole County officials would direct the use of the money, which proponents say will fund an ambitious facelift for the city.
About two dozen possible projects are on the table. The centerpiece is a large exhibition space that proponents say users of a new convention center will demand.
