Kent County’s lodging excise tax will increase from 5 to 8% starting January 1st, 2025. The tax has been set at 5% since 1989 and applies to hotels and motels that provide lodging for guests staying less than 30 consecutive days. This increase is expected to generate $8 million annually funding entertainment and sports venues.
Additionally, the Board approved an agreement with the city of Grand Rapids allocating money from the lodging excise tax to cover principal and interest payments on the $27.5 million bond issued by the city to construct the Acrisure Amphitheater.
The Board also allocated 17% to Experience Grand Rapids, bringing their total allocation to $4 million annually. Experience Grand Rapids has received a portion of the lodging excise tax to support and promote county tourism and convention marketing efforts since 1979. The funding increase supports Experience Grand Rapids marketing future projects such as a proposed soccer stadium and aquarium.
The increase was approved in a vote of 16 to 1, with one member abstaining.
