Tax generates funding for sports tourism, Independence Bowl and regional air service development
SHREVEPORT, La. — Voters in Caddo and Bossier parishes will decide Dec. 12 whether to continue a 1.5% hotel occupancy tax that provides dedicated funding for sports tourism, the Independence Bowl and regional air service development.
The Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau Board of Directors called the special election following adoption of a resolution July 15.
The proposition would continue the additional 1.5% tax on hotel and motel rooms and overnight camping facilities within the bureau’s jurisdiction for 12 years, beginning July 1, 2027, and ending June 30, 2039.
The tax is estimated to generate approximately $1.72 million annually.
After collection and administrative costs, the proceeds would continue to be divided among three regional organizations.
One-half of 1% would support the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission for the execution and promotion of sporting events and activities related to sports tourism.
Another one-half of 1% would support the Independence Bowl Foundation for promotion of Division I football events.
The remaining one-half of 1% would support the Ark-La-Tex Regional Air Service Alliance for development of regional air service and air carriers.
Louisiana law authorizes the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau to levy the additional hotel occupancy tax and specifies the uses of its proceeds.
The Dec. 12 election is expected to cost approximately $175,200, according to the public notice. The estimated cost is $68,800 in Bossier Parish and $106,400 in Caddo Parish.
Polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.
The bureau’s board is scheduled to meet Dec. 17 at 11 a.m. at 629 Spring St. in Shreveport to canvass the election returns and declare the result.
The proposition puts a regional economic-development funding mechanism before voters at a time when tourism organizations and local governments continue efforts to attract sporting events, visitors and expanded commercial air service to Northwest Louisiana.