GRAND CHUTE, WI (WTAQ) – The Town of Grand Chute may be taking action to prevent unpaid hotel room taxes.
The issue was brought this week before a town committee.
Grand Chute Town Chairman Dave Schowalter says the Howard Johnson motel has not paid room tax from the last quarter of 2018.
“This is room tax that does not belong to them, they collected it and eventually they stole it, that is what it is,” he said. “I run a business myself and if I did not pay my sales tax, I would be out of business.”
The owner of the Howard Johnson Jasmieet Kaurr said they are strapped for cash and plans to pay at the end of the month, however, the issue will be brought before the Town Board in May and Schowalter says swift action needs to be taken.
“The end result would be a suspension or revocation or non-renewal of the license and that is what it should be.”
Records show the Howard Johnson also owes unpaid utility fees and property tax.
Room Tax money that is collected goes back to the community and is used to pay for the Champion Center, the Exhibition Center and other aspects of tourism.
“That money is mandatory to be paid and paid on time.”
Schowalter says in the future he plans to push for legislation that would not allow hotels to go this long without paying room tax.
“If it is not paid, you shouldn’t be in business. Action will be taken a lot quicker than it was this time.”
The issue will be brought before the Town Board in May.
