Wood River voters approved a 1 percentage point municipal sales tax increase on Tuesday, clearing the way for the Southern Illinois city to address construction of a new recreation center and address needs in flood-prone areas.

According to unofficial tallies, the tax was approved 560 votes to 481.

Real Property Alliance had backed the property tax vote since all voters in the city would have a chance to weigh in on the issue. The organization has long held that the municipal sales tax is a better way to address funding needs than opting for Home Rule, which takes direct approval away from voters.

The ballot measure would provide an estimated $1 million annually for public works projects, including the replacement for an aquatic center.