Doing Business In The Delta
Tourism is the driving force of Downtown Clarksdale and it is growing. From 2008 to 2009 alone it has marked a 19% increase in tourism dollars flowing through the community. Along with the growth in tourist traffic comes the need for providing more for them to do, more choices for food and, of course, opportunities for recreational shopping. That is why we are excited by your interest in doing business in Clarksdale and particularly downtown.

Community leaders and local governments have banded together to form Clarksdale Revitalization, inc., a non-profit endeavor to assist in the renovation and adaptive re-use of existing buildings, identification of infrastructure needs, re-branding of the area to build on its economic strengths, create avenues for enticing investment and to assist new businesses in succeeding. Part of our commitment is to help make your start-up as easy as possible. There are several programs that have been developed to do just that.

As with anywhere in the country there are some basic “get started” activities that required, so we’ve assembled a check list to help you cover all of those bases.

One of the first stops is the historic Greyhound Bus Station at Third and Issaquena. That’s where you will find Clarksdale Revitalization. They are here to help you with market information, discuss your plans and answer questions about the market area and to show you around our town. There is also current information on programs and incentives available that may be beneficial.

City Hall, at 121 Sunflower, is where most permit and programs applications are received.

Start with a privilege permit, which is the same as a business permit. The price is very reasonable and the main purpose is to let everyone know that you’ve started a business here.

If you purchase a building and plan to renovate or improve the property, you can apply for a long term property tax abatement, which assures the improvements you make will not be re-valued and taxed on the new higher value for up to ten years. The City Clerk’s office is on the ground floor of the building and the telephone number to that office is 662-621-8136.

On the third floor, all forms and permits are available for renovation or other construction. The City Inspector’s office maintains a list of contractors, guidelines for specific types of projects, permit forms and check lists to help your project go smoothly. The City has adopted the International Building Code as a standard for public safety. To reach the building and code office, call 662-621-8148.

Clarksdale Public Utilities, at 416 Third Street, is the place to go for electrical service, garbage and water. There is a deposit required for all service, but it is one stop for all service except natural gas. To discuss service, call 662-627-8499.

Atmos Energy is the provider for natural gas in our area. They are located at 121 Delta Ave and the local number is 662-627-5418.

There are several options for telephone service and internet access in the area.

There are a few things to do with the State of Mississippi, starting with the Mississippi Tax Commission. All in-state businesses which have retail sales in Mississippi must register for a sales tax license and number. The license and number is obtained by preparation of Form 70-001. This form is used to apply for various licenses issued by the Mississippi State Tax Commission. Only certain sections of this form apply to Sales and Use Tax. Depending on the type of business you are opening in Clarksdale, other permits may be required.

Corporate filings, charters, etc. will also vary depending on how you wish to structure your business. A good lawyer and a good accountant are the best tools in your start up kit to assist with decisions for your business structure. If you want to file a corporation with the State you can do so through the Secretary of State's Office (Business Services Division) at 601-359-1350.

There is a plethora of information concerning all kinds of businesses available from the Mississippi Development Authority, On line at mississippi.org.