In a quick and efficient gathering, the City of Winona Board of Aldermen convened for a special called meeting on Friday, March 22. Mayor Aaron Dees began the session with a prayer, marking the commencement of the under-five minute meeting.
Ward 3 Alderwoman Sylvia Clark was not present at the meeting, while Ward 5 Alderwoman Linda Purnell was present via telephone.
The focal point of the gathering was to discuss the approval of the 2 Percent Tax Resolution, a crucial financial support measure for the City of Winona. This tax, vital for the city’s growth and development, requires renewal every four years to remain in effect. This renewal will extend the tax through July 1, 2028.
Failure to secure this renewal would mean forfeiting the 2 percent tourism tax, which could have significant repercussions on Winona’s development initiatives.
“If we don’t submit a vote, then we lose the 2 percent tourism tax,” Mayor Dees explained.
The tax is instrumental in financing various projects aimed at enhancing the city’s appeal to tourists and residents alike. Under the umbrella of this tax, Winona is seeing improvements, including enhanced lighting along Front Street, the upcoming mural project, and other revitalization efforts downtown.
Mayor Dees read the resolution to the Board. He read, “Resolution of the Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the City of Winona are requesting the Mississippi Legislature to authorize the governing authority of the City of Winona, Mississippi to levy a tax upon the gross sales of items sold and prepared, such as prepared food and beverages within the corporate limits of the City of Winona and to utilize a revenue from the tax to promote tourism, recreation, economic development, and the general wellbeing of health to its citizens and for its related purposes. We are requesting an extension for the next four years to July 1, 2028.”
Ward 4 Alderman Charles Harris wasted no time, promptly moving to approve the renewal of the 2 percent tourism tax resolution, a motion seconded by Ward 2 Alderman Travis Johnson. With unanimous support from all present members, the motion was approved.
