Commission Opposes Business Tax Hike

Posted on: Nov 23rd, 2009 | Announcements

The Mobile County Commission Monday approved on a 2-1 vote a resolution declaring that it opposes any increase of taxes or business license fees on businesses in Mobile. The resolution also criticizes unfunded mandates from the state because of the burden it places on local governments. Commission president Mike Dean and Commissioner Stephen Nodine supported the resolution; Commissioner Merceria Ludgood opposed its passage. The action comes on the heels of a proposal last week by the City of Mobile to increase business license fees for big box stores. Dean said he opposed any increase in taxes on businesses, particularly at this time when the economy is fragile and businesses are struggling through an economic downturn. Nodine said tax increases will chase away companies seeking to establish new business operations here. He added that residents in annexation areas would be burdened by continuing tax increases on the costs of goods and services in those areas. Commissioner Ludgood opposed the resolution, saying there was a lack of complete information about the city's plan. She said the resolution presented was based solely on a newspaper article and suggested that the other commissioners be better informed before acting. Dean and Nodine asked Bob Chappell of the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce to investigate further and report back to the Commission about the issue and the Chamber?s position on it.