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Special Election Set for February 11 to Decide County Lodging Tax


A special election will be held on February 11 to determine whether Sequoyah County will implement a lodging tax. The proposed tax would apply to visitors staying overnight in local hotels, motels, or short-term rental properties such as Airbnbs and VRBOs. It would not affect county residents unless they book local lodging accommodations.


The tax is designed to generate revenue for community development and economic growth while minimizing the financial impact on residents. Proponents of the measure emphasize, "You only pay if you stay." For example, campers or those staying in private accommodations will not be subject to the tax.


If passed, the lodging tax revenue would be allocated as follows:


  • 60% towards supporting the Sequoyah County Fair building, assisting with maintenance and improvements that directly benefit local 4-H, FFA programs, and community events.

  • 10% towards road beautification efforts. Similar initiatives in neighboring Cherokee County have removed 124 tons of trash over 11 events.

  • 30% towards advertising efforts to attract visitors to the area, boosting economic activity and benefiting local businesses.


Advocates also point to successful lodging taxes in other areas, such as the 5% lodging tax in Sallisaw, which funds the city’s sports complex, and Branson, Missouri’s 13% lodging tax, which supports its tourism infrastructure.


Sequoyah County has scheduled three town hall-style meetings to address their questions regarding the proposed tourism/lodging tax. The first meeting was held last Tuesday at the Sequoyah County Fairgrounds, where residents discussed how the proposed 4% lodging tax could benefit the community.


The next town hall meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 27. The meeting is set to take place at the Vian Cherokee Community Center at Armstrong Park at 6 p.m. The last meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on Monday, February 3, at the Muldrow Cherokee Community Center.


Residents are encouraged to attend meetings to ensure they are educated on this measure before casting their votes during the February 11 election.




Lindsie Dyer, Staff Writer


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