Through the first three months of 2022, Craig’s sales tax collections are outpacing 2021 and far ahead of March 2020.

According to figures compiled by the city, Craig’s 4% sales tax generated $709,833 this March, the most recent month for which figures were available.

That increase put the city’s collections more than $90,000 above the same month in 2021 and $176,000 above sales tax collections in March 2020.

The growth marks a more than 14% jump over March 2021, the third straight month of gains for the city, after February came in 16% ahead and January finished up almost 6%.

January and February are often some of the slowest months for sales in Craig. December has been the highest month for at least the last two years.

In March, the retail grocery category accounted for the highest dollar total in Craig, followed by general retail, and restaurants and bars.

Most sectors showed slight to significant growth compared to the same month last year, though electrical, alcohol, manufacturing and industrial, lodging, and professional services were either flat or down a bit.

The city’s revenue from water sales and wastewater fees were each up between 4% and 5% in March, while landfill fees were up almost 9%.