Yukon voters pass hotel, motel tax

By Robert Medley

Published: August 28, 2008

YUKON — Voters on Tuesday passed a hotel and motel tax meant to bolster tourism and economic development, officials said.

The tax will be needed to promote the growing city, City Manager Jim Crosby said.

"It's a start,” Crosby said Wednesday. "We're excited about it.”

Voters approved the tax despite low turnout, he said.

The tax passed by a vote of 737 to 567.

Crosby said he is not surprised at the results.

"I thought it would pass because it is something that does not really affect local residents,” he said.

"Anyone who travels knows that you have to pay this tax in other cities.”

City officials expect the tax eventually will generate about $170,000 a year, although that amount may not be reached next year, which is the first year of collection.

The city has a new hotel being built that is expected to open next year.

Motel and hotel customers will pay an extra 5 percent of their nightly bill to support the tax.

Sandy Meier, Yukon Chamber of Commerce director, said the money will be needed to promote events such as the Oklahoma Czech Festival.

Money would be available for a State Highway 66 revitalization project, too, she said.

Crosby said he heard form a few people in Yukon who opposed the tax because of concerns for homeless people who stay in motels.

He said the tax will not affect monthly rentals of motel rooms.

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