HB 1254, which is under consideration in Concord would add a lodging tax to help support cost of town's public safety services.
- Bill Overview: HB 1254, aimed at supporting public safety in towns like Conway, proposes a new revenue method through a small charge on lodging. It is scheduled for a hearing at the House Ways and Means Committee on January 9th.
- Revenue Potential: If passed, the bill could generate approximately $1 million annually for Conway.
Key Details:
- Sponsorship: The bill is sponsored by Democratic Reps. Tom Buco, David Paige, and Steve Woodcock from Conway.
- Support: Conway's selectmen and town officials support the bill.
- Purpose: The bill allows towns to collect a public safety assessment on various lodging establishments to address the public safety needs arising from increased tourism and transient traffic.
Implications for Conway:
- Local Challenges: Conway currently faces a tax burden shift to homeowners and needs funds for renovating the Conway police station, estimated at $8 million.
- Revenue Calculation: Assuming a $2 charge per night with 50% occupancy across 3,000 rooms, the town could earn around $900,000 annually, potentially covering the costs of the police station renovation.
Legislative Process:
- Public Hearing and Testimony: The bill will be heard by the Ways and Means committee, with public testimony options available.
- Lack of Local Representation: No Carroll County representatives are on the Ways and Means committee.
A similar bill was rejected in the past; this version focuses on public safety to gain approval.