Tulsa voters will decide on Nov. 3 whether to increase the city’s hotel guest tax from 5% to 9.9%, the first change in more than four decades. The measure appears on the ballot as a way to generate additional revenue for tourism‑related projects.
According to KTUL, supporters estimate the higher rate would generate $20.6 million annually, while the same outlet also cites an estimate of approximately $26 million each year for venue improvements and other tourism investments.
Tourism leaders and city officials are urging voters to approve the increase. Brian Paschal, board chair of Visit Tulsa and CEO of the Lobeck Taylor Family Foundation, told KTUL that “it’s critical that we keep pace with other communities in our region and around the country,” adding that Tulsa risks losing concerts, conventions and tournaments if it does not act. Paschal repeated the point on News On 6, noting that Oklahoma City, Wichita and Memphis have already raised their hotel taxes to fund facility upgrades.
The additional revenue would be earmarked for the BOK Center, the Arvest Convention Center and the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Renee McKenney of Visit Tulsa emphasized to News On 6 that maintaining these facilities is essential for attracting visitors and large‑scale events.
Supporters argue that the tax would primarily affect out‑of‑town visitors staying in hotels or short‑term rentals, not Tulsa residents. News On 6 reported that the tax would not apply to long‑term hotel stays, government employees or veterans who are 100% permanently disabled.
Local visitors also voiced support. Lillian Lester and her daughter Elizabeth Cail, who traveled from Edmond during fall break, told KTUL that they believe “it’s more than fair for people visiting to help” with the upkeep of historic sites and attractions such as the restored Mayo Hotel.
What’s next: The hotel‑tax proposal will appear on the Nov. 3 ballot. If approved, city officials say they will begin allocating the new funds to the BOK Center, Arvest Convention Center and Tulsa Performing Arts Center, with the goal of keeping Tulsa competitive for major events.
Sources: ktul.com, newson6.com
