Washington Parish officials are preparing to back to the voters asking them to approve a .33-percent increase in the sales tax that leaders say is necessary to balance the budget.

The Parish Council on Monday night is expected to approve a resolution that will allow the parish to apply to the Louisiana Bond Commission seeking authorization to call a special election Oct. 1.  If approved the tax would be levied through the parish with the exception of the municipal boundaries of Franklinton.

Earlier this year voters soundly defeated a similar measure, with more than 60 percent opposing the  increase.

For additional updates read The Daily News on Wednesday.