Ingham County voters raise hotel tax to fund fairgrounds, Lansing Center repairs

Ingham County voters approved an increase in the tax on short-term hotel stays, raising the rate from 5% to 8%, according to unofficial results. About 62% of voters backed the increase.

The higher tax rate will boost funding for entertainment venues and cultural initiatives from just under $4 million annually to nearly $7 million. Ingham County Board of Commissioners Chair Ryan Sebolt said the most immediate funds will go toward repairing and updating the Ingham County Fairgrounds and the Lansing Center.

Sebolt said that once immediate repair needs are addressed, he wants to open the process to proposals for longer-term use of the funds, potentially including support for local sports clubs seeking more permanent infrastructure. A similar tax increase appeared on the ballot in 2024 but failed to pass.

Read the full story at wkar.org.