Springfield City Council asks voters to raise hotel guest fee for event center

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Springfield City Council has approved a special ordinance to ask residents to increase the current hotel guest license on Nov. 4, 2025.

According to a City of Springfield press release, the city has submitted a question to voters to increase the current hotel guest licence by 3% to help support the construction of a regional convention and event center.

The tax would affect overnight visitors staying in hotels, motels, tourist courts and short-term rentals, the release says.

The city says the timing of this opportunity is to secure $50 million in state funding for the event center project. The plan is currently on a state withhold list pending the stability of state revenues and demonstration of a local $30 million match and project readiness.

“The Governor and state leaders have made it clear that Springfield has a significant opportunity, but also a responsibility—to bring a credible match and be ready to act,” City Manager David Cameron said in the release. “We’re at a pivotal moment. This ballot measure is a key component of an overall financing package and plan showing the state we’re ready to deliver.”

The funds for the project were authorized through House Bill 7 and signed by Governor Mike Kehoe on June 30. The authorization requires Springfield to move swiftly and decisively to show community support and to demonstrate financial preparedness.