In 1998, the citizens of Mecklenburg County voted by a 58 percent to 42 percent margin, and reaffirmed in 2007 by a 70 percent to 30 percent margin, to levy a half-percent sales tax dedicated to public transportation.  This local sales tax funds new transit services, the design and construction of rapid transit services and support facilities.  The local sales tax represents 52% and 47% of total Operating Income in FY2009 and FY2010 respectively. The recession of 2009 is projected to cause an 18% decline in sales tax collections over FY2008.  CATS took steps in early FY2009 to reduce expenses, freeze positions, etc. to manage to the uncertain economic conditions.