When consumers in Atmore receive their sales receipt today while shopping or eating in Atmore, the additional 1 percent in sales tax is no April Fools joke.

A mid-February decision of the Atmore City council to increase the city’s sales tax 1 percent, along with several other taxes goes into effect today, April 1.

Mayor Howard Shell said then that the increases are not something the city is taking lightly or decided to do overnight.

“We have spent a lot of time over the last several weeks discussing this,” he said. “We will not be the first city nor will we be the last to make adjustments. We are running behind on paving streets and providing other services. This was not done lightly and we sincerely hope the people understand. If they are watching the news, then they see not only other cities, but also other states are having some trouble.”

In addition, the city’s gas tax is increasing 1 cent, lodging tax 2 percent and the rental/lease tax 3 percent. The increases result in an increased sales tax from 8 percent to 9 percent; the lodging tax from 8 percent to 10 percent; the gas tax from 2 cents to 3 cents and the rental/lease tax from 2 percent to 5 percent.

The price of a lot in a city-owned cemetery was also doubled back in February for residents from $450 to $900. For non-residents, cemetery lots are now $1,000. There’s also a $125 perpetual care fee, and a $100 burial permit fee.