- October 2020 sales tax receipts – $1,938,916.97 (highest October on record)
- September 2020 sales tax receipts – $1,972,206.75 (highest September on record)
- August 2020 sales tax receipts – $2,025,615.49 (highest August on record)
Each month’s receipts show the economic activity that occurred two months prior. For example, the October sales tax diversion check of $1,938,916.97 reflects what was purchased in the Hattiesburg economy during the month of August. Thus, the September numbers reflect what happened in July and August numbers reflect what happened in June.
“Several factors play a role in what drives a citizen or visitor to shop or buy commodities in a location – especially during specific seasons like peak summer travel, the college student population coming back to town and major events. However, many of those factors were not in full force this year due to COVID-19,” said Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker. “While we know that these numbers and trends may not be the case for every business, it does give us an indication that the economy here continues to do well here…and that consumers feel safe shopping in our metro area even amid a pandemic.”
These receipts indicate the base 7% sales tax figures and do not include local option sales taxes on food and beverage or hotel/motel.
Barker adds that this success is attributed to the business community in Hattiesburg and how they have adapted to public health safety measures and guidance due to COVID-19.
“The credit for our strong retail economy goes entirely to our businesses and how effectively they have responded during what has been a hard year for everyone. They have created environments where people feel safe shopping, and that has allowed most residents to find a functional normal in what will continue to be a challenging season,” said Barker. “I encourage our citizens to stay the course in supporting local businesses, wearing masks and being kind to retail workers. I hope these numbers reassure our citizens and visitors that it is safe to shop and do business in Hattiesburg.”
YOY Comparison of Numbers 2018 – 2020:
- October 2020 sales tax receipts – $1,938,916.97 (highest October on record)
- October 2019 – $1,890,196.11
- October 2018 – $1,915,150.31
- September 2020 sales tax receipts – $1,972,206.75 (highest September on record)
- September 2019 – $1,835,903.82
- September 2018 – $1,926,912.36
- August 2020 sales tax receipts – $2,025,615.49 (highest August on record)
- August 2019 – $1,877,821.37
- August 2018 – $1,829,502.15