Hiawatha economic development group supports sales-tax extension

The Hiawatha Economic Development Co. Board of Directors has endorsed the proposed 20-year extension of the local option sales tax.

The one percent tax on sales and services is a critical part of funding the continued growth and development of the City of Hiawatha, the group said in a statement. If approved, the extension could generate about $15 million to help with Hiawatha city projects.

Projects that could benefit include improvements of Tower Terrace Road and an Edgewood Road extension, completing the North Center Point Road streetscape project and completion of the Town Center project, including realigning the intersection, traffic signals and utilities, the group said.

Property tax relief, road improvements in newly annexed areas and matching federal funds for various projects are also amongs the possible uses, according to HEDCO.

The referendum on the local option sales tax extension is scheduled for May 3, 2011.