DATA: Sales tax revenue increases year over year in Keller-Roanoke-Northeast Fort Worth

Changes in coronavirus-related restrictions, which began May 1, continue to have a positive economic effect on the Keller-Roanoke-Northeast Fort Worth area, according to the latest sales tax data from the Texas comptroller’s office.

Data for July indicates sales tax revenue increased from July 2019 to July 2020 in Keller, Roanoke and Fort Worth. The city of Roanoke saw the largest year-over-year increase at 27.18%, followed by Keller at 22.79% and Fort Worth at 6.47%

“These year-over-year gains in sales tax revenue continue to highlight the impact of residents shopping within the city limits, in person and online,” Keller Finance Director Aaron Rector said.

Keller city officials and the Greater Keller Chamber of Commerce continue to partner with local businesses through initiatives, such as Curbside Giveback and Beyond The Mask. More time spent at home and in the local community could also be a factor in the year-over-year increase, Rector said.

“Based upon category increases, it appears residents are taking on home improvement projects, equipping their children for virtual learning, investing in entertainment options and more,” he said.

Sales tax revenue in Keller totaled $1.29 million in July compared to $1.05 million during the same time last year.

“Our staff of three has worked every day with our business owners to create exposure for them, promote them and assist them and at the same time keeping them informed about the funding programs available to them,” said JoAnn Malone, the president of the Greater Keller Chamber of Commerce. “I really believe our efforts created a very strong sense of community and loyalty to each other during this time.”

Similar factors have contributed to year-over-year increases in Roanoke and Fort Worth.

The city of Roanoke collected $1.74 million in sales tax revenue for July compared to $1.37 million in July 2019.

Meanwhile, the city of Fort Worth collected a total of $15.95 million in July sales tax revenue compared to $14.98 million during the same time last year.

“If [residents] are working from home, they’re also spending money in Keller that they were previously spending closer to their office or in cities along their commute,” Rector said.