Things are happening in West Orange. New businesses, new housing, new residents, and a good chance that more is on the way.
Why? It’s not a secret that the new Golden Triangle Polymers Plant is bringing opportunities for all of Orange County.
West Orange wants to be prepared and forward thinking by creating an Economic Development Corporation that will have money to spend on projects and improvements. To do that, they’re asking the citizens to pass an Economic Development Sales Tax of a quarter of one percent on Election Day November 7.
Mayor Randy Branch said, “Based on calculations, this ΒΌ of 1% sales tax increase could generate approximately $250,000 a year to be used for various economic development projects within the City. It could range from the creation of jobs, attraction of new businesses and improving the quality of life for the residents of West Orange.”
“I know people look the word ‘tax’ as a dirty word but we’re talking about a quarter of one percent or only 25 cents for every $100 spent,” he said. “If passed that would put our sales tax from 8 percent to 8.25, which would be the same as Orange, Pinehurst and Bridge City.”
If passed, the Economic Development Corporation would be created and made up of seven citizens who would be in charge of reviewing projects and proposals.
Over 500 cities in Texas have already passed this tax, by election, to help improve their communities.
Early voting is Oct. 23-27, Oct. 30-31, and Nov. 1-3. Additional information can be found on the cityofwestorange.com website.
-Gary Stelly, KOGT-
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