Sales tax figures show increase in Valley's consumer spendiing in last year

YOUNGSTOWN

More jobs, more income, cheaper fuel, less debt and better household wealth all lead to more consumer spending.

Nationally, these factors have led to increased consumer spending in 2016 and an expected moderate growth in 2017.

“Really, the U.S. economy has been leaning heavily on consumer spending,” said Mekael Teshome, PNC Bank economist. “When you have more and more people getting jobs, then you have more and more money to spend.”

Locally, the sales and use tax revenue increases in Mahoning and Trumbull counties indicate an increase in consumer spending from 2015 to 2016.

County sales and use tax is on most items, including employment services, lawn care, fitness memberships and dry cleaning. Several items are exempt, including food and prescription medication. The revenue generated goes to the county governments.

Read more about the matter in Sarturday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.