Increase would include funds for development authority
The City of Blue Ridge held it’s first readings for the Hotel/Motel Excise Tax Ordinance Amendment, Special Event Ordinance and Street Performance Ordinance during a Tuesday, August 11, council meeting.
The Hotel/Motel Excise Tax Ordinance Amendment includes a change from 5% to 8% in taxes. This change will go into effect 15 days after August 11.
Those who pay this tax will not pay for the change until September, Mayor Donna Whitener said.
43.75% of the total amount acquired from the Excise Tax is shared with the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce.
37.5% of the funds is allocated at the city’s discretion.
The remainder (18.75%) is left strictly for tourism development.
However, the city previously voted to allow 1% of the 8% be given to the Downtown Developmental Authority.
The Special Event Ordinance will allow various vendors or organizers to host special events downtown by acquiring a permit for a $100 non-refundable fee.
The Street Performance Ordinance will allow street performers an opportunity to perform in a designated area for $25 every seven days.
Councilman Mike Panter suggested changing the ordinance to a $100 monthly permit rather than weekly.
Councilwoman Rhonda Haight suggested a $200 monthly fee.
A dollar amount will be decided by the next meeting in order to adopt the ordinance.
The ordinances will be read at the next meeting and will be adopted at that time if all council members are in agreement.