Covington County residents who shop at home can take advantage of the fourth annual sales tax holiday during the first weekend in August.

The Andalusia City Council held a special called meeting Monday to approve the measure, which had to be in place with the state by close of business yesterday.

The vote was unanimous.

Councilman Terry Powell said he believes it is more important than ever for the city to participate.

“Our citizens have been shopping at home in this tough economy,” Powell said. “Thanks to them, our sales taxes are up. Particularly this year, this is the right thing to do.”

The state legislature approved the state sales tax holiday earlier this year, but it is up to local governments to decide whether or not to participate. Covington County, Andalusia, Opp and Florala are all on board.

During the sales tax holiday, certain items are exempt from sales taxes, including: clothing on items priced at $100 or less per item; computers and computer supplies; school supplies, including school art supplies and instructional material, with a sales price of $50 or less; and books priced at $30 or less.

The sales tax holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. Fri, Aug. 7, and ends at midnight Sun. Aug. 9.