Guest Tax

Here is what the tourism tax is and can do:

  • A transient guest tax is a tax on hotel or overnight accommodations paid mostly by people visiting Excelsior Springs. It is not a sales tax paid by residents unless you stay in a hotel or overnight rental in the city limits
  • Tourism is economic development and Excelsior Springs was founded on tourism
  • Tourism tax dollars can be used to develop and resurrect the mineral waters
  • Tourism tax dollars can be used to support festivals and events for residents and visitors
  • Tourism tax dollars can be used to develop art initiatives like art festivals or public artwork
  • Tourism tax dollars can be used to expand the trolley transportation system for residents and visitors
  • Tourism tax dollars can be used to market Excelsior Springs to visitors and conferences to bring more people to the community to support small and large businesses
  • Tourism tax dollars can be used to enhance wayfinding signage, beautification efforts, and amenities
  • Tourism tax dollars can be used for hospitality training or skill building to support small businesses

Administration of the tourism tax fund:

  • Managed by an advisory board of residents and business owners
  • Oversight by the board, city staff, and city council
  • Funds will be audited just like other city funds or accounts
  • Annual budget prepared and approved by the tourism advisory board and city council

Here is what the tourism tax is not:

  • Tourism tax dollars can’t be used for anything other than promoting tourism
  • Tourism tax dollars can’t go into the general fund or used purposes other than tourism
  • Tourism tax dollars can’t be spent without tourism advisory board approval and city council approval
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