San Gabriel sales tax receipts for January through March were 3.1 percent higher than the same quarter one year ago.

Actual sales activity increased 4.3 percent, after factoring out aberrations. The increase can be attributed to a strong sales quarter for autos and transportation. General consumer goods sales increased by 2.4 percent overall. New eatery openings and net higher sales boosted most restaurant categories.

A larger allocation from the countywide use pool further contributed to the increase in receipts this quarter. However, the gains were partially offset by continued low fuel prices. Business closures overshadowed positive sales growth in several building and construction sectors, depressing group results.

In comparison, taxable sales and use tax receipts for all of Los Angeles County rose 2.7 percent over the same time period, while those for Southern California as a whole were up 3.1 percent.

For more information, contact Finance Director Tom Marston at 626.308.2812, ext. 4610 or tmarston@sgch.org.