News 12 first at five, May 13, 2008

Augusta, GA---One dollar doesn't seem like much, but it is has some hotel owners and managers upset. They feel shafted because they weren't consulted on a one dollar tax on hotel rooms. What will their disappointment mean for Augusta?

Money raised from the new one dollar a night hotel tax in Richmond County would be used three ways. The money would help maintain the new Trade, Exhibition and Entertainment center once it is built downtown. It would also help redevelop historic Augusta neighborhoods like the Bethlehem area. Any leftover money would go to public transit.

Now some hotel managers want a meeting with city leaders. It all comes as a game plan is already in the works to revitalize inner city neighborhoods. It's a plan that could be in danger.

Hotels are a place for sweet dreams, but some hotel managers say there's nothing sweet about a new 1 dollar hotel/motel tax.

"In all we just think it's a bad idea," said Marty Matfess who is general manager at the Doubletree Hotel.

Marty is one of dozens of concerned managers going before the Augusta commission to take on a new ruling that is taxing his guests. The money is being used for much needed downtown improvements.

"We don't mind doing our share but we want to do it in a way that it doesn't cost us money." This...as people like Tamara Wright...a mother of 3 who's lived in the Augusta Super Inn for close to 4 years now...faces an additional $30 a month in fees.

"That's a lot. That's takin food out of our mouths," said Tamara.

Managers like Marty are posting a do not disturb sign. They say a percentage of sales tax would be much better than that flat one dollar tax. "That's probably not going to happen," said commissioner Jerry Brigham.

He says the ball is already rolling. The city has committed more than 30 million dollars for historic neighborhood improvements. He says there's no turning back.

"We're not saying unspend the money. We're just lookin at how we can fund it differently," said Marty.

"There's options to be looked at, but to say we gone eliminate the tax...that isn't gone happen," said Commissioner Brigham.

There's still a lot up in the air, but Marty says there's one thing that's certain..."The people that can afford it the least are being hit with it the most."

"I guess I gotta just pray about it cause I gotta have somewhere to stay...I really don't have a choice," said Tamara.

Commissioner Brigham says the city will consider putting a limit on the numbers of days guests are taxed. The city administrator will meet with hotel managers in the coming weeks.