CARLISLE, Ark. (AP) — Despite the strong anti-tax sentiment across the nation, towns in Arkansas are convincing voters to pay more taxes for needs ranging from police officers to economic development.
In Arkansas, 16 communities have put sales tax proposals on the ballot this year, and 14 have passed. Several other cities have tax hikes in the works. That's a better success rate than anyone can remember in recent history.
The tax hikes are being approved in both Democratic and Republican communities, and in cities large and small. The tax increase approved in Little Rock was the first since 1994.
Experts say the record shows that it's essential for governments to explain clearly what services the high taxes will buy, and to consider what kind of levies are most acceptable to voters.
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