District 25 State Sen. Donna Campbell filed Senate Bill 1444 and District 73 State Rep. Carrie Isaac filed House Bill 2289—both of which are designed to authorize the city to leverage state tax revenues generated by a hotel and convention center project for authorized public improvements, the news release states.
What you need to know
The city has been proactively working to identify potential funding sources for New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center’s future expansion, the news release states.
One potential funding source is a Qualified Hotel Project, or QHP, which allows state Hotel Occupancy Taxes and sales tax revenue from an eligible hotel to be pledged toward construction costs for public improvements such as the civic center, parking structures and adjacent street and utility improvements. A QHP is a public/private financial tool designed to assist Texas cities in financing hotel facilities that support convention centers, according to the news release.
What the city is saying
New Braunfels City Manager Robert Camareno said the city remains committed to strategic and sustainable development that enhances infrastructure, supports local businesses and maintains the unique character of New Braunfels.
“As this bill moves through the legislative process, we will keep residents informed and engaged on this significant initiative,” Camareno said in the news release.
What state representatives are saying
Isaac said that New Braunfels is one of the fastest-growing communities in Texas and responsible development is key to sustaining success.
“This bill [HB 2289] ensures that tax revenues generated by a hotel and convention center project can be reinvested into the community, strengthening local infrastructure and supporting economic growth,” she said in the news release.
Campbell said she was "honored" to support New Braunfels' economic development and local businesses.
“SB 1444 will responsibly dedicate tax revenues generated by New Braunfels to fund local projects," Campbell said in the news release.
Stay tuned
The city of New Braunfels will continue to collaborate with state legislators, the Texas Hotel and Lodging Association, the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce and other key community stakeholders to secure the passage of the aforementioned bills, the news release states.
