Times Record
Fort Smith is set for an alcohol tax increase, but not without further consideration before it goes into effect.
City Administrator Carl Geffken requested an October study session for a 5% increase to the city s supplemental alcohol tax before it is slated to go into effect in December 2021. This increase would bring the city s supplemental alcohol tax to the maximum fee of 10%, bringing liquor to a 33.75% tax, wine to a 23.75% tax and beer to a 19.75% tax when purchased in a restaurant or bar.
The tax would net the city a projected $500,000 annually, which was factored into the 2021 budget.
The Board of Directors voted 5-2 for the tax to go into effect in December 2021 at the request of 64.6 Downtown Director Talicia Richardson, who said it would negatively impact private clubs whose bottom lines are already strained by COVID-19 restrictions. At-Large Director Neal Martin and Ward 4 Director George Catsavis went against the motion, which was voted upon afte