Martin County Commission considers adding a half percent sales tax referendum to November ballot

Do people want to pay more at the cash register for Martin County roads and parks maintenance? That's a question the Martin County Commission could ask in the form of a sales tax referendum.

Martin County roads, bridges, drainage and parks badly need maintained, and the county can't afford it, according to two commissioners. They're supporting a half percent sales tax referendum on the November 6 ballot.

Reports say the county's need totals about $16.5 million, and a half percent sales tax would raise about $10 million a year. 

District 3 Commissioner Patrick Hayes supports the referendum but would like to hear what his constituents want.

District 4 Commissioner Sarah Heard questioned if people would want to pay more when they shop.