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St. C. Income Tax

A KINDER and gentler tax increase.

If there is such a thing, it may be currently playing out in St. Clairsville.

St. Clairsville has never had a city income tax. The Belmont County Seat is one of the last remaining cities in Ohio to make that claim. Should voters give their approval on Nov. 2, such will no longer be the case in the hilltop community.

St. Clairsville is feeling the economic strains like every other entity in Eastern Ohio. That being the case, city council is seeking a 1 percent income tax to help fund municipal operations.

Much to its credit, the city’s administration has taken steps to be extremely fair with imposition of the tax, should it gain approval.

We like the fact that Social Security recipients and those drawing pensions will not feel the effects of the St. C. tax. Fixed incomes should be immune from such a proposal.

Moreover, earned interest, dividends and capital gains will not be touched. Tax collections, however, will target earned income, net profits for businesses and income on rental interest. We view that as an equitable route to go.

Unlike property-based taxes, everyone required to pay the tax will deal with 1 percent, be it a minimum-wage earner or an individual earning six figures.

In addition to Social Security recipients and pensioners, city council has also crafted an extensive list of other tax-paying exemptions. They range from military pay, charitable and religious organizations as well as alimony and child support.

Moreover, a 50-percent credit is given to St. Clairsville residents working and paying income taxes in other municipalities.

We do not know how St. C. voters will respond to the tax proposition. That will come into clearer focus after the polls close on Nov. 2.

We do believe, however, that St. Clairsville City Council has taken steps to avoid placing an exorbitant burden on potential taxpayers.

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