Bill would create hotel tax district in St. Francisville to redevelop blighted property
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — A proposed Louisiana bill could pave the way for a new hotel and economic development in St. Francisville by creating a special taxing district aimed at revitalizing blighted property.
House Bill 267, authored by state Rep. Jeremy LaCombe (R-Livonia), would establish the 'Hotel Francis District' as a political subdivision of the state. The district would encompass a 14.8-acre property currently in disrepair and allow for the construction of a conference-style hotel, restaurant, and related facilities.
The bill proposes forming a three-member board to oversee the district's operations and financing. The board would include the mayor of St. Francisville and two members of the town's governing authority appointed by the mayor.
To fund redevelopment efforts, the district would be empowered to levy a hotel occupancy tax and a sales tax on food and beverages sold within the district—but not on items for home consumption. Tax rates would be set at levels at least equal to those already in place throughout West Feliciana Parish. If the property currently generates no such taxes, the new taxes could replace some existing ones—so long as those are not tied to bond payments or dedicated projects.
The measure would also allow the district to issue revenue bonds and use future increases in tax revenue, known as tax increments, to fund or refinance the hotel development.
Under the legislation, the district would automatically dissolve after all debts are paid or after 40 years, whichever comes first.
If approved by lawmakers, the bill would take effect immediately upon the governor's signature or after the designated timeframe if no action is taken.
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