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Rupp Project Supporters Hopeful As Hotel Tax Advances To Full House

Josh James
/
WUKY

Legislation clearing the way for Lexington to up its hotel tax to help fund the Rupp Arena expansion sailed through a House committee Wednesday.

It’s a funding source Mayor Jim Gray has described as “mission critical” to the $310 million dollar Rupp project.

And while the House Local Government Committee lent its unanimous support Wednesday, there may not be a united front back home. Citing a lack of information, a handful of Urban County Council members did not sign a letter promising support for the measure if it passes the General Assembly.

Gray, however, says most have agreed to sign on.

"Work with the council... just began itself and so the council members are still considering it. I feel very optimistic that the council members will be favorable toward the legislation," Gray says.

The bill would enable Lexington to raise its hotel tax by 2.5 percent, a move officials estimate would generate $3.5 million. Gray did not offer specifics on how the city might proceed if the bill fails to pass, but he stressed that his administration remains committed.

Now the legislation moves to the Senate, where Nicholasville Republican Tom Buford says lawmakers still have unanswered questions about the project.

Josh James fell in love with college radio at Western Kentucky University's student station, New Rock 92 (now Revolution 91.7). After working as a DJ and program director, he knew he wanted to come home to Lexington and try his hand in public radio.
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