(AUBURN) - The DeKalb County Visitors Bureau is asking county officials to consider raising the county's innkeeper's tax from 5% to 8%.
Executive Director Ryan Jernigan presented the request to the DeKalb County Council on Wednesday, saying the increase could generate additional funding for tourism efforts, local organizations and grants. The proposal is allowed under Indiana House Bill 1210.
The innkeeper's tax applies to room and accommodation rentals of less than 30 days, with revenue supporting the visitors bureau. Jernigan said the bureau currently operates with a budget of about $550,000 and said additional funding could help expand marketing efforts and provide stronger support for local attractions.
Officials also noted the tax is paid by overnight visitors rather than county residents, allowing tourism dollars to be reinvested into county programs and destinations.
Council members also discussed updates to ordinance language involving payment deadlines, penalties and fee distribution. Attorney Don Stuckey will prepare a revised ordinance for future review. County officials are expected to determine a final tax percentage during that process.