Wichita to raise hotel tax to promote tourism

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) - The City Council in Wichita has approved a new hotel tax to finance efforts to promote tourism and attract large events.

KFDI-FM reports (https://bit.ly/1ePCef6 ) the council voted 7-0 on Tuesday in favor of the 2.75 percent tax for guests at hotels with more than 50 rooms.

The levy is expected to generate about $2.5 million to $3 million a year. The City Council voted earlier this month to create a tourism district to help raise money for marketing and promotion. The council on Tuesday approved establishment of a tourism business improvement district as well.

Wichita officials have said current promotional funding was growing slowly at the same time the city is facing strong competition from other cities to attract conventions and tourists.

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Information from: KFDI-FM, https://news.kfdi.com