Syracuse Common Councilors are taking steps to ensure the city is collecting enough revenue and spending it efficiently, without burdening residents. For example, councilors Tuesday approved a two percent tax on visitors who stay overnight at hotels in Syracuse. Finance committee chair Corey Williams says it’s one of the few avenues they have to raise funds from those who don’t live here.
“We often balance our budget by raising taxes and fees on our residents and we're conscious of the fact that there is a tremendous burden on our residents," Williams said. "We're trying to be creative and think about ways that we can generate additional revenue without putting on the backs of residents.”
The new tax would add about $3 to the cost of a $150 hotel room. That’s on top of the county tax of over $10. The city tax is expected to generate at least $1.5 million per year for city coffers. Councilor Pat Hogan was the lone “no” vote.
Meanwhile, councilors also approved hiring an independent auditor to look into spending on modernizing employee services like payroll. Councilor Williams says they need experts to determine where and how money has been spent on software and other programs.
“After about $10 million, we still don't have an entirely operational product," Williams said. "There have been some modules that have moved forward. But we are still lacking that comprehensive product that we have invested a lot of money into.”
The audit will cost $88,000. Williams says it’s in the best interest of the city’s finances, and taxpayers, especially since the city faces a structural deficit of about $20 million.
