On May 12, the community of Ewing overwhelmingly agreed that they are ready for positive change. During the primary election, the citizens proved that by passing an economic development program and .05% percent sales and use tax by a margin of 109 for and 29 against.

Ewing is now in a position to be more competitive in attracting new business and people to the community, as well as support the established businesses currently located in Ewing. This money will be used for low-interest loans and grants available to all qualifying businesses. Eligible activities including new business development, as well was business expansion and all of the costs involved in purchasing, building or renovating properties. Housing development, working capital, job training expenses and demolition of buildings to assist with future development are just a few examples of how this program can help businesses grow. Grants can be matched to improve the business facade as well. This not only can improve the look of a business but also the safety of its customers.

The great part about this economic plan is that it is overseen by members of the community. They work as a committee to identify which project would have the most positive economic impact on the community.

Overall, this is a big win for the community of Ewing. Before this economic development plan was in place, the resources to help local businesses were limited. This half of a cent sales tax could be the difference for a business to relocate into Ewing or not.

This local sales and use tax rate of 0.5% will go into effect Oct. 1. While the Department of Revenue will not mail written notices to each retailer, they want to make you aware that the information is already on their website under the sales and use tax link.

Additionally, the Department of Revenue would encourage retailers to sign up for notifications regarding tax changes by registering at revenue.nebraska.gov. Registration can be completed by clicking on the subscribe to notifications link on the home Page.

As this tax will start to be collected Oct. 1, Ewing will not see any of this revenue returned until approximately January 2021, and then will continue to see this account grow monthly after that.