JeffCo officials consider bringing back job tax

The countdown clock is ticking for finding a solution for Jefferson County's funding crisis. The county is facing a $40 million shortfall because of the loss of the occupational tax. Tuesday is the first day of the legislative session.

Jefferson County Commissioners are backing a new job tax at .045% on those working in Jefferson County. This will raise about $66 million.

"It's imperative the legislature help us here in Jefferson County. So we can continue work through the bankruptcy but also provide services to the people of Jefferson County," Tony Petelos, Jefferson County Manager, said.

The county advertised several bills but plans to introduce only one bill, sponsored by Birmingham Representative Demetrius Newton.

"We need a restoration of revenue is what the county needs or a combination of unearmarking any of them would be sufficient," Jimmie Stephens, Jefferson County Commissioner, said.

Unearmarking sales tax dollars won't be easy. Birmingham representatives John Rogers and Mary Moore oppose taking any money from the indigent care fund designated for Cooper Green Mercy Hospital. Rogers also opposes new taxes if the county plans to raise sewer rates to get out of bankruptcy.

"He will have to wait to we get closer down to bankruptcy. There will be no solution in these legislative session and we will have to cut expenses," David Carrington, Jefferson County Commissioner, said.

Without some financial help the county will be forced to make severe cuts in the coming months.

"We will do what we have to do. It won't be pretty. We will do what we have to do because we have to balance our budget," Joe Knight, Jefferson County Commissioner, said.

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