WPCNR QUILL & EYESHADE. By John F. Bailey. July 31, 2008: City Commissioner of Finance, Gina Harwood reported today that White Plains collected $11,485, 331 in sales tax receipts for April, May and June of 2008, wrapping up the 07-08 fiscal year with a total sales tax “handle” of $45,462,389 -- $62,000 over Ms. Harwood's forecast 16 months ago.
Gina Harwood, City Commissioner of Finance: On the Money.
Harwood said it was the strongest 4th quarter White Plains has ever had. She described the White Plains economy as “doing well, we’re holding.” She said she expected that the additional ¼% of the city sales tax which begun being collected July 1 would add $1.4 Million to the first quarter figures now being generated, putting the city on target for a $50,000,000 sales tax year. The 08-09 budget calls for $45.4 Million in sales tax for the year.
Harwood is optimistic, but wary: “People in Westchester County are staying here and spending money. Walmart is doing well. Target is strong. More people are in the Ritz.” She also allowed as the increased gasoline taxes contributed to the fourth quarter surge which was only $356 less than the holiday quarter of October, November, December.
The numbers, released by the city Department of Finance today:
Sales Tax Receipts 2007-2008 Fiscal Year
July-August-September 2007: $10,917,807
Oct-November-December 2007: $11,841,285
Jan-February-March 2008: $11,217,966
April-May-June 2008: $11,485,331
Total: $45,462,389
