TAX NEWS - JUNE 2010

Idaho Tax: Arena backers seek vote on Idaho Falls hotel tax

02 June 2010 -- Backers of a new Idaho Falls convention center and arena want to put a proposal for a 5 percent hotel tax before voters in a special election.

Idaho Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Bob Everhart estimates the tax could generate between $20 million and $25 million.

The tax would be used with private investments and grant money to fund the approximately $35 million facility on 25 acres off of Interstate 15.

The center would have a capacity of about 5,700 and be used for sporting events, concerts, trade shows and conventions.

In 1999, Bonneville County voters defeated a similar auditorium district proposal.

This time, organizers want to limit the vote to city residents. They need to gather 3,000 signatures to put the issue on the ballot.