Seminole County looks at bringing back additional penny sales tax

SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Seminole County is looking at bringing back its 1-cent tax after getting rid of it two years ago.

If county commissioners agree to reinstate the tax, residents could start paying extra by January 2015.

The last time the county collected that extra penny on every dollar spent, it took in $590 million and used it to build 100 miles of roads over 10 years. But now that money is gone.

"Do you have money now in the budget to fund future projects?" Channel 9's Racquel Asa asked Brett Blackadar of Seminole County Public Works.

"Just through next fiscal year, 2013-2014," Blackadar said.

If the county agrees to charge an extra penny again, it would be the third time since 1991. But this time, rather than using the money to build roads, the money would be used to maintain existing roads.

"Before we move forward, we need to have the citizens and the board understand what this penny would do," said Seminole County Commission Chairman Bob Dallari.

Commissioners made no formal decision Tuesday. If they decide the penny tax is the best way to go, voters could have their say by spring of next year.

WFTV