Starke Council Approves Change to Innkeeper’s Tax

The Starke County Council approved a change to the county’s ordinance regarding the innkeeper’s tax – a tax on the rental of rooms and accommodations, for periods less than 30 days, in addition to the state sales tax. Deb Mix with the Starke County Convention and Visitors Commission approached the council to discuss the tax, and according to county attorney Martin Lucas, the innkeeper’s tax is covered by Indiana Code and controlled by the fiscal body.

Lucas said the state statute sets forth that persons that can be taxed must be involved in renting lodgings in a variety of locations. Also, he said the council may adopt an ordinance that would require this tax be paid monthly to the county treasurer – failure to do so would be a Class D felony.

Under current law, Lucas said the county prosecutor would enforce it. The council approved a motion changing the collection of the tax from the state to the county, and the penalty portion of the amendment will go to a public hearing at their next meeting.