East Baton Rouge Metro Council Approves 2 Percent Sales Tax for River Center Development
Council members are hopeful the tax will rejuvenate downtown and address safety concerns. “If you’re not engaged in illegal activities, downtown is relatively safe,” said Jen Racca, Metro Council member for District 12.
BATON ROUGE, La. — The East Baton Rouge Metro Council has approved a new 2 percent sales tax intended to revitalize downtown Baton Rouge. The tax is part of a broader initiative to support the development of a new convention space and hotel in the River Center area.
Council members are hopeful the tax will rejuvenate downtown and address safety concerns. “If you’re not engaged in illegal activities, downtown is relatively safe,” said Jen Racca, Metro Council member for District 12.
The tax has raised concerns among local organizations. Doc L’Herrison, of the Spanish Town Mardi Gras Krewe, expressed worry that the tax would reduce funding for local charities. “We donate all our earnings to about 20 local charities each year. This tax will cut into those contributions,” L’Herrison said.
Jill Kidder, president and CEO of Visit Baton Rouge, addressed these concerns by noting that the district has no residential areas. “While taxes and fees often come with concerns, this district’s lack of residents means there will be no direct impact on local residents,” Kidder said.
The funds from the tax will support projects within the district, including the River Center, The U.S.S. Kidd Museum, and the Louisiana Art and Science Museum. The goal is to attract more tourists and signal the city’s commitment to economic development.
L’Herrison questioned the need for an additional taxing district, asking, “Do we need another taxing district? I don’t get it.”
The tax will not take effect until after the new hotel and convention space are completed. As the district does not include residential areas, a public vote on the tax was not required.
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