Assemblyman John Lemondes is reaching out to the Auburn community for feedback on a proposed 5% tax on hotel stays and short-term rentals within the city. Lemondes announced a public meeting scheduled for Thursday, March 21, at 7 p.m. in the Auburn City Council chamber, where residents can learn about the proposed tax, share their thoughts, and ask questions. Those unable to attend the meeting have the option to send their comments directly to Lemondes’ office.
The proposed tax, which aims to generate additional revenue for Auburn, has Lemondes and State Sen. Rachel May leading the charge in the state legislature to grant the city the authority to implement this tax. City officials, having seen similar taxes approved in neighboring areas, are optimistic about the positive impact on Auburn’s finances, projecting an annual revenue boost of $500,000.
However, the hotel industry has voiced concerns, warning that such a tax could potentially harm local tourism. Despite opposition, if passed by the state legislature and signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul, Auburn’s city council will have the final say in establishing the tax, set to take effect in January 2025, with a cap at 5%.
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