Spfld.'s meal tax set to increase

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Springfield's mayor wants to raise the city's meal tax in the fiscal year that begins July 1st.

The meals tax will only be raised three-quarters of a percent, but the hike would add $1 million to a budget that has been hit with cuts from the state.

Mayor Domenic Sarno unveiled his budget plan Thursday and said raising the meals tax was his toughest decision. However, he said it was neccessary to avoid layoffs.

22News asked residents if this tax increase would make them choose not to dine out in Springfield.

Jennifer Epaul of Agawam said, "No I don't think it would effect my decision to go out to eat anywhere. It's only three-quarters of a percent. It's not going to be a huge increase."

Springfield's meal tax increase will be put into effect on Wednesday, July 1st.