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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. Louisiana bill would allow abortion exceptions for minors in sex crime cases REPORT: Saints QB Derek Carr's status for 2025 season now in jeopardy Baker School Board, Impact Charter agree on vacant building use Teen dies after Thursday night shooting in Baton Rouge, police say WorldPride organizers caution transgender visitors from abroad Salt Pepper Oak BBQ restaurant relocating to Baton Rouge with brisket, cocktails, and chef-driven menu Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.