From the city of San Marcos

San Marcos sales tax collections have risen for the second month in a row with collections of $1,581,005 in August, or 4.2 percent above August 2007.

For the fiscal year, which began last October, the City of San Marcos has collected $15,030,003 or $703,279 (4.91 percent) more than the same 10-month period a year ago. The August report from the Texas Comptroller reflects sales that occurred in June. The city’s fiscal year runs from October 1 through September 30.

“San Marcos is in a better position than many communities because our sales tax portfolio includes both large and small businesses,” Mayor Susan Narvaiz said. “It also reflects the commitment of the City Council to participate in effective marketing partnerships both across the nation and internationally to insure that we remain the top retail destination in the state. Our outlet malls have continued investing and improving to keep the public enthusiastic about returning to shop.”

Sales tax collections have been as high as 15.68 percent more than 2007 revenues in February and saw three months of slight declines from April to  June. Revenues have picked up this summer, however, indicating a strengthening economy.

“We use very conservative budget estimates for planning revenue from sales taxes,” said Rosie Vela, City Finance Director. “We are continuing a conservative budget forecast for our budget planning for 2009.”

RELATED IN THE MERCURY:

• Sales tax collections decline in San Marcos for second month | May 13, 2008
• San Marcos sales tax revenues up 3.73 percent | February 12, 2010
• Prime Outlets expansion pulling more sales tax than city projected | June 5, 2008
• San Marcos adopts $146 million budget | September 4, 2009
• City sells $73 million in bonds for public works | March 11, 2008