Half-Cent Sales Tax Marks 20th Anniversary

TYLER — A reception will be held today from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Gallery Main Street downtown to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the city of Tyler’s half-cent sales tax. The come-and-go event is open to the public, and refreshments will be provided. Voters approved the tax Nov. 7, 1995, to fund capital infrastructure projects that officials say enhance the community and attract economic development.

Each year, the city collects approximately $13 million in half cent sales tax revenues, which have allowed the city to pay cash for capital improvements. Those include the relocation and construction of Fire Station 5, construction of a new police substation, and street improvements such as the construction of Earl Campbell Parkway and the extension of Cumberland Road. Other projects that have benefited from the tax include the Tyler Pounds Regional Airport Terminal, Faulkner Park, the Fair Parking Garage downtown, and the Glass Recreation Center. The tax is currently being used for a number of projects, including the current construction of the Tyler Animal Care Facility.