Ellington

Bryd of the Associated Press writes:"The chairman of the Senate Local and Private Committee says he won't approve any tax increase bills, including those from cities that are trying to fund special projects. Sen. Ralph Doxey, D-Holly Springs, is head of the committee that handles legislation dealing with requests from cities. Doxey on Wednesday said he wouldn't support the city of Jackson's request for a 1 percent tax increase to fund an $85 million convention center. 'It's not just Jackson. There are many local and private bills being introduced that call for 1, 2 and 3 percent tax increases for various specific purposes,' Doxey said. 'Right now, under the current spirit of this Legislature, I will not pass any tax increase out of Local and Private.'"