Starting date for county’s new $50 wheel tax unclear

By Eddie West Staff Writer

It’s unclear exactly when the county will begin collecting the new $50 wheel tax approved by the county commission in October of last year, but its expected to take place in the weeks ahead.

Meanwhile, when implimented, registration for each vehicle will more than double.

The fee will be paid annually when individuals renew their vehicle registration with the county clerks office.

Before collection begins, computer software in that office has to be updated.

After speaking with a representative with the company which manages the office’s computer system in December, County Clerk Cliffa Norris said she was told it could be up to three months (from December).

The office’s computer system is managed by a company out of White Pine.

Pertaining to computer system upgrades and repair work in general, while certain work can be conducted remote from the company’s office in White Pine, other work has to be conducted on location at the county clerks office.

For now, renewing vehicle registration in Smith County is the same cost as  2024.

Registration includes an existing $15 county wheel tax plus the state fee of $29 for a total of $44 per vehicle.

Once the wheel tax has been implemented the fee will increase to $94 per vehicle.

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