Opposition To Room Tax Changes Grows In Cities, Villages

Two central Wisconsin communities have joined the growing opposition to a state budget proposal that would change how cities and villages in Wisconsin spend hotel room taxes.

The city of Wausau and the neighboring village of Weston have both passed resolutions opposing the plan, which is supported by the Wisconsin Hotel and Lodging Association. Weston village administrator Daniel Guild is asking Gov. Scott Walker to veto it.

“This is a back-door deal by a special interest group that’s looking to advance only one particular set of interests in communities where elected officials have to balance many different interests,” said Guild.

Officials with the Hotel and Lodging Association said the provision would guarantee that room tax revenue is spent by local communities on tourism promotion and development.

Guild, however, argues that municipal services like police and fire protection are also vital for tourism.

Clarification: The radio version of this story described the proposed changes to room taxes as a bill. To be clear, the plan is a provision that’s part of the state budget legislation.