Guest tax comes under review

The Fort Scott City Commission will discuss a possible increase of the Transient Guest Tax at Tuesday's regular meeting.

According to a letter from the Transient Guest Tax Committee to the commission, their recommendation to not increase the tax from its current rate of five percent was based on an understanding that the city's budget has been cut.

"We've made our decision concerning budgetary expenses based on those most likely to continue sustained functionality of the Tourism Department," the letter read.

In addition to budget concerns, the committee also feels an increase would work against the goal of attracting tourists to the community and have a negative impact on businesses in the community.

"We feel that raising the Guest Tax would be detrimental to an already struggling local economy," the letter said. "Raising the Guest Tax raises (business owners') costs, and lowers (business owners') bottom line."

The commission will also get a response from Bruce Remsberg, of Professional Engineering Consultants, P.A., regarding concerns about the quality of the work when repairing the brick streets during the Streetscape Project. In addition, the commission will discuss a request from Jake's Fireworks to waive the fireworks ordinance on Oct. 23 for the Fort Scott High School game.

Fort Scott City Manager Joe Turner will also provide an update on the storm sewer system study for the area of 7th Street and National Avenue.

The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. Tuesday in the Commission Room at City Hall, 1 E. 3rd St.