NC H497

Authorizes the City of Hickory to levy a municipal sales and use tax at a rate of 1/4% in addition to state and local sales taxes, subject to voter approval in a referendum.

Requires the city's governing body to provide 10 days' public notice before adopting the tax by resolution, and directs the county board of elections to conduct an advisory referendum on a date agreed upon by both entities.

Tax does not apply to food exempt from tax under G.S. 105-164.13B or to bundled transactions taxable under G.S. 105-467(a)(5a).

Distributes net proceeds monthly to the City of Hickory from the Secretary of Revenue, with revenue allocated among municipalities proportionally if uncategorized taxes are collected.

Revenue must be used exclusively for public safety, economic development, and public facilities.