Ohio got more sales tax in ’07

COLUMBUS — Ohio counties and transit authorities collected more sales tax in 2007 than in 2006, according to statistics released by the state.

Counties collected a combined $1.4 billion from January-December, up 3 percent from the $1.36 billion a year earlier, according to the Ohio Department of Taxation. The seven transit authorities in the state added a combined $2.9 million in 2007, up 2 percent from 2006.

Combining the two local sales tax sources, collections reached $1.7 billion for the year, up 3 percent from $1.65 billion a year earlier.

The biggest increases were in Columbiana County, up 34 percent for the year, and Medina County, up 20 percent. Both counties increased their local rates during the year. Five other counties — Union, Monroe, Carroll, Coshocton and Darke — had double-digit increases.

Clark County had the biggest decline, at 27 percent.