Could proposed zoning rules impact new arena revenue?

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Proposed zoning rules for short-term rentals in Augusta could affect hotel-motel tax revenue that helps support the Coliseum Authority, which will be connected to operations at the new James Brown Arena.The arena is expected to open next year as one of the largest in Georgia. About 400 workers are building it. The half-cent sales tax is helping to cover the cost of construction.Every time someone books a hotel room or short-term rental in Richmond County, a portion of the bill goes toward the hotel-motel tax.Augusta documents show the tax brought in about $26 million over the last three years. Over that period, Destination Augusta and the Coliseum Authority each received about $12.8 million.The tax applies to hotel rooms and short-term rentals. Augusta records show short-term rentals contributed about $1.1 million in hotel-motel tax last year, which is more than 11% of the total.Short-term rentals currently are not covered by specific rules in Augusta. Under