County Board of Supervisors Approve Occupancy Tax for Chenango
Commerce Chenango shares that after the March 9th, 2020 public hearing, the Chenango County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution and moved its adoption to implement a 4% occupancy tax in Chenango County. The new Local Law will serve to provide a dedicated funding stream to promote and develop the tourism industry in Chenango County and to reduce pressure on the property tax levy.
Chenango County has been one of just a few counties in New York State that had not previously collected a bed tax. Neighboring counties, Broome and Madison, charge 5% and 4% respectively. A bed tax, also known as a local occupancy tax, is a charge separate from state-mandated sales tax that is determined by a local municipality. It is not a local tax on existing residents and has very little negative impact on the hotel industry.
The dollars generated will help to develop a tourist-friendly environment, expand activities, promote the outdoor trails, attractions, culture, agriculture, and events that we already know are some of the best in the state.
Tourism is New York’s 3rd largest industry, hosting 253 million visitors annually who spend 71.8 billion at NYS businesses creating 114.8 billion in economic impact.
Chenango County Tourism is working with the Board of Supervisors on an implementation plan and strategy for the additional tourism dollars. The Local Law, which will require a 4% tax on all accommodations, will take effect on July 1, 2020. The implementation and enforcement of the Local Law will take effect immediately.
