Home

Steamboat Springs — Empty commercial space in downtown Steamboat Springs is reflected in sales tax revenue, but there is no need for concern, officials said.

"The downtown is going through a transitional phase right now," said Sandy Evans Hall, Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association executive vice president. "The fact that we're seeing increases despite the loss of business is encouraging.

There are six major redevelopment projects in the works downtown, and Hall said a bounce in tax revenues is expected once they are completed.

The August sales tax revenue report shows the downtown area lags behind other areas of the city, which have seen more significant gains in sales tax revenues. Revenues generated from the downtown area increased just over 4 percent for this August compared to August 2005.

The West Steamboat area experienced a 21 percent increase and the U.S. Highway 40 corridor was up nearly 14 percent compared to August 2005.

Citywide, the Steamboat still is experiencing a boom in sales tax activity. Overall, tax revenues were up 10 percent in August. Year to date, the city is 12.28 percent above last year, with revenues collected so far totaling $12.26 million.

Evans Hall cites three main reasons for the increased revenues.

"Certainly our tourism num-bers are up," Evans Hall said. "We can look at Triple Crown as a big component of that."

Year to date, the amount of money collected from a 1 percent lodging tax is up 12.51 percent compared to last year.

Lodging companies were able to charge more for rooms this year, which contributed to that increase, Hall said.

- To reach Matt Stensland, call 871-4210 or e-mail mstensland@steamboatpilot.com