MS SB3032

Authorizes the City of Gautier to levy a tax of up to 1% on gross proceeds from restaurant sales and up to 1% on gross hotel/motel room rental sales within city limits.

Revenue from the tax must be placed in a special fund separate from the general fund and used exclusively for improving parks and recreation facilities for tourism and economic development purposes.

Tax implementation requires governing authorities to adopt a resolution, publish notice for at least three consecutive weeks, and hold an election where 60% of qualified electors voting must approve the tax.

Department of Revenue collects and administers the tax using the same procedures as state sales taxes, with funds paid to the city by the 15th of the following month after collection.

Act sunsets on July 1, 2016, and requires separate annual audits of tax revenue and expenditures by an independent certified public accountant.