Sheridan experiences sales and use tax increase for May 2020

Amid cancellations and shutdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the average sales and use tax decrease experienced by municipalities in Wyoming is 11.14% according to Sheridan city officials.

In spite of the recent downturn in many areas, Sheridan – along with Riverton and Laramie – experienced an increase in sales and use tax for the month of May.

Sheridan’s sales and use tax revenue increased by 9.9% from May of 2019. The previous two years experienced an increase during the month of May with an increase of 3.5% in 2017 and 3.4% in 2018. 

Internet sales tax showed an increase of 141% for the month of May, possibly due to the online shopping by Sheridan residents at home while social distancing, Sheridan Mayor Roger Miller said. The total tax percentage attributable to internet tax is 8.2%, up from 3.7% the same time last year.

During an appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Miller said the increase in internet tax amounts to only just over $18,000 but it’s a welcome increase and adds up over the course of a year. 

Miller went on to say the city will keep a close watch on the numbers as the summer months pass as it will be months before city officials will receive the information showing the toll that event cancellations – due to COVID-19 – have had on the city.