Finger Lakes Today

Assemblyman John Lemondes (R,C-LaFayette) has expressed opposition to the proposed hotel occupancy tax in the city of Auburn. Earlier this year, Auburn’s City Council sought state permission to implement a tax of up to 5% on hotel and short-term rental stays. Cayuga County currently has its own hotel occupancy tax, also set at 5%.

In March, Lemondes met with constituents to assess public support for the initiative. Concerns were raised by residents and local business owners about the potential impact on tourism and regional affordability. As a result, Lemondes is advocating against state authorization of the proposed tax to lower costs for consumers.

“After meeting with numerous constituents and Auburn residents, I do not believe the state should authorize this tax,” said Lemondes. “The last thing we want to do is increase costs for visitors, which will, in turn, decrease revenue for vital industries such as tourism. Cayuga County already has its own hotel occupancy tax, which Auburn should be able to have a share in. I will continue to work with state and local officials to make sure localities have the funds they need but we must be conscious of consumers and the impact another tax will have on local businesses.”