Baldwin residents push for sales tax

FOLEY, Ala. (WALA) - Hundreds took to the streets in Foley Sunday for a march and rally in support of a proposed one percent sales tax. The floats, signs, and marching high school bands all carried the same message.

"It's for the schools," one marcher shouted.

School officials are asking voters to approve the tax for three years to help generate $25 million annually. It's money interim school superintendent JaNay Dawson said Baldwin County desparately needs.

"All of the sales tax dollars will go to the local school level to keep in place teachers, nurses, bus drivers, people who have a direct impact on the life of a child," Dawson said.

Terry Burkle with the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation said hundreds of jobs have already been cut.

"It will allow them to hire back some of the critical positions that were let go," he said.

Following the march, the same message was stressed at a rally. Even those too young to vote made a plea.

"My school allows me to learn the latest technology skills. I enjoy art, music, and projects," said a third grader from Elberta Elementary.

"One of the things that makes our schools so spectacular is our appreciation for the arts," said a student from Spanish Fort High School.

A supporter led the crowd in a cheer.

"Give me a Y! Give me an E! Give me an S! What do you say? Vote yes!"

The tax referemdum is set for March 23rd.