60 folks turn out for first Mahoning County sales-tax hearing

CANFIELD — The sentiment among speakers at the Mahoning County Commissioners first hearing on the half-percent sales tax renewal was overwhelmingly in favor of renewing the tax in May, but many of the speakers were officeholders or county workers.

More than 60 people braved a snowy evening to attend tonight's hearing, which lasted more than 90 minutes at the Mill Creek MetroParks Farm.

The large turnout was in sharp contrast to the sparse attendance at the first hearing the commissioners had before their unsuccessful attempt to renew the tax in November.

Only one speaker was opposed to the renewal. “People just can’t afford it,” said Stephen A. McVicker of Youngstown, who said he is unemployed.

“It’s a consumption tax” he said, noting that those who lack disposable income can’t afford to make major purchases. He also said the sales tax is undesirable because it increases the cost of doing business in the county.

As an alternative, McVicker suggested an increase of less than 1-mill in the real estate tax.

For the complete story, see Tuesday's Vindicator and Vindy.com