Taxable sales slide another 16 percent in Douglas County

Douglas County taxable sales fell another 15.9 percent in October compared to the same month in 2008, according to numbers released by the Nevada Department of Taxation.

Total taxable sales for the month were $42.7 million compared to last year's $50.8 million.

Motor vehicle parts and dealers were down 71 percent from the previous year, construction of buildings was down 35 percent, and food and beverage stores were down 6.3 percent.

There were some bright spots for the month, including administrative and support services, which was up 145 percent from last year. General merchandise stores were only off .8 percent.

Statewide, taxable sales for October 2009 represented a 17.8 percent compared to October 2008. Carson City fared slightly better than Douglas, down 15.1 percent, and Lyon County came in with a 10.4 percent decrease. Only Humboldt and Storey counties recorded positive taxable sales for the period.

"The release of taxable sales and revenue collection data for the month of October continue to illustrate the effects of high unemployment rates, cautious consumer spending and an overall decline in business activity," Gov. Jim Gibbons said. "My administration will continue our efforts to encourage increased tourism, promote business growth, expansion, and diversity within this state, and raise consumer confidence to better prepare Nevada for the future."