By Susan Redden

sredden@joplinglobe.com

CARTHAGE, Mo. — A proposal to extend a Jasper County sales tax for road and bridge projects was boosted by representatives of chambers of commerce in the county on Friday.

Chamber officials gathered at the Jasper County Courthouse to announce their support of the tax. If voters approve the measure on Tuesday, the quarter-cent tax would be extended for another 10 years.

“We’re here collectively because each of our boards thinks the tax has been of great benefit in the last 20 years in providing good, safe roads, and that it should be continued,” said Rob O’Brian, president of the Joplin Chamber of Commerce.

O’Brian noted the chamber officials represent about 1,800 businesses in the county “that depend on a good transportation system.

“All our communities benefit from the tax, and we’re pleased with the way the money has been utilized,” he said.

Spokesmen from the chambers also emphasized the importance of good transportation to communities and for business.

“Transportation is such an important component in the growth of this county; these programs need to continue to support it,” said Gary Turner, Sarcoxie.

Also speaking on behalf of the tax were Steve Lawver, of Carl Junction, Dixie Meredith, of Webb City, and Kate Massey, of Carthage.

O’Brian said there is concern that voter turnout for the election will be low on Tuesday.

“This is an important issue for Jasper County, and we hope people will get out and vote for it,” he said.

Darieus Adams, Western District county commissioner, noted the tax proposal also had been endorsed by city councils and school boards in the county.

The tax was first passed in 1986, then was extended in 1992 and again in 1997. He said the commission asked for a 10-year extension, “because we have at least 10 years of work to do, especially in bridges.”

Approval by a simple majority is required for passage, Adams said.