Revenue generated in the town of Ellettsville from the Monroe County Food and Beverage Tax would go back to the town under a new bill proposed for this legislative session.
The tax was established in 2017 and adds 1 percent to the cost of food and drinks in restaurants. The tax collected inside the City of Bloomington goes to city government and taxes outside the city limits goes to county government, to be used for tourism and economic development.
The state’s Legislative Services Agency estimates Ellettsville could receive about $231,000 annually if the bill passes.
The bill, authored by Republican state representatives Peggy Mayfield and Bob Heaton, says the town would be able to use the money for economic development, public safety, improving recreation areas, and repairing roadways.
County councilmember Trent Deckard said this bill won’t have as much of an impact on local economy as a property tax change would have.
“If we see that change, then we’re going to see a lot,” he said, “including the town of Ellettsville, Monroe County, city of Bloomington, and every other county and community, we’re going to see a lot changes to their local funding metrics.”
If passed, House Bill 1080 would become law July 1.