KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Hotel operators in Kalamazoo County who haven’t been paying their accommodation taxes, could face foreclosure if the county board changes their enforcement ordinance.
The accommodation tax is a 5% fee tacked on to every hotel bill paid by visitors. The money helps subsidize local tourist destinations, like the Air Zoo and the Expo Center.
Jane Ghosh at Discover Kalamazoo says it provides 98% of their annual funding.
County Treasurer Thomas Whitener says the current ordinance is toothless. Imposing the same kind of penalties that homeowners face if they don’t pay property taxes will encourage compliance.
County commissioners will hold a public hearing and could take a vote on the proposed changes at their afternoon meeting Tuesday.
Please no.