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Bath meals tax gets little support
WARM SPRINGS - The Bath County Board of Supervisors wants to hear from residents concerning a possible meals tax. The board voted Tuesday to place the tax on its August agenda for action.
The board will decide whether to start the process of having a referendum on the tax placed on the November general election ballot. County attorney Michael Collins said in order for there to be enough time for the referendum, action needs to be taken in August.
The tax could be collected on food and beverages served at private restaurants, Collins said. Up to 4 percent could be charged, but that only applies to the amount of the meal. "If a restaurant automatically adds the tip to the bill, they will have to separate that out. The tax cannot be charged on the tip," he said.
Collins said once the board of supervisors passes a resolution to put the proposed tax on the ballot, an order would be prepared for signature by a Circuit Court judge. The ballot question must be worded in a manner that is easy for the public to understand and that requires a "yes" or "no" response. Collins said.
Since the order has to be entered 60 days before the election, or Sept. 4, action must be taken in August, Collins said. The information must be sent to the state and local electoral boards in order for ballots to be printed. In addition, the referendum must be advertised for three weeks.
Supervisor Percy Nowlin said he had not heard much support for a meals tax in the county. "I am concerned about the timeline. I am not in favor of a meals tax at this time," he said.
"I can't support it, either. I am not in favor of it at this time," said supervisor Carol Hardbarger.
Supervisor Stuart Hall said since it would be a referendum, the matter should be left up to the citizens. "I think it is our responsibility to present options to generate additional revenue. If people are interested in it, they will vote. If not, we will hear in November," he said.
"I think we need a complete board to consider this," said supervisor Richard Byrd. Chairman Jon Trees was absent from Tuesday's meeting due to a family emergency.
When Hall made the motion to place the proposed tax on the August agenda, he particularly asked the public to come out and make their feelings known on the issue since no public hearing is required. The meeting will be held Aug. 12.
- Mike Bollinger, Staff Writer
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