TISHOMINGO, Okla. -- An important vote coming up for residents in Tishomingo. At stake is a sales tax increase which could fund much needed city improvements.

The vote is for a one-cent increase in Tishomingo’s sales tax. A quarter of it would go toward street improvements. The rest would be used to revamp the city's water system, which commissioners say is way out of date.

"Because of what it means to the economy of the community…. It’s just essential to have good streets water and sewer."

That's why Tishomingo city manager Jack Yates believes this sales tax vote is so important.

He says the city's water mains are constantly breaking and he's tired of seeing the city funds washed away.

"We spend around $2,500 to $3,500 each month. Other things we lose are opportunities to do other things."

Yates says the tax increase would be the best option to fix the city's water woes instead of having to increase residents’ water bills by $9.

Residents we spoke to say they're in favor of the sales tax increase, including pizzeria owner Ivan Richeson.

"There was a day they had to repair a pipeline up here, and we were without water for a day, so that inconvenience you do without, so if we can eliminate those issues in town it will help us out."

If it's passed, city officials say the tax increase will go into effect in January of 2008.

"I think it’s crucial to the economic future of the community, but also having a good infrastructure for the city for business wanting to locate to city and have reliable water sewer and street system."

Early voting:

October 5th
8am - 6pm

October 8th
7am- 6pm
October 9th
7am - 7pm

Johnston County Courthouse
Bank First - Precinct 2
Calvary Baptist Church - Precinct 3
First United Methodist Church- Precinct 4