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Local restaurateur urges council to address meals tax implementation as first payments near
Summary
A Main Street Pub owner told the council the July 1 meals tax went into effect without concessions for restaurants; Town Treasurer said forms were mailed and the first payment for July collections is due Aug. 20, 2024. Council asked businesses to submit specific requests by July 15 for the August agenda.
Kevin McNamara, owner of Main Street Pub, told the Clifton Town Council on July 2 that local restaurants were concerned the meals tax, which took effect July 1, 2024, was implemented without concessions or clear communication to some businesses.
"We want to define our concerns and needs," CM Jay Davis said, asking Mr. McNamara to coordinate with other restaurant owners and submit a written statement to the Town Clerk by July 15 so the issue can be added to the August meeting agenda. Mr. McNamara agreed to do so and said he would coordinate with the other restaurant owners.
Town Treasurer Lisa Wax told the Council that a form and a letter about the meals tax were mailed to impacted businesses and posted on the Town website, and that the first payment (for July collections) is due Aug. 20, 2024. The Treasurer said the Town will contact any local businesses it has not yet reached and that it will begin recruiting accounting support for audit readiness and to assist with tax administration.
Why it matters: early months of a new local tax can cause cash‑flow and compliance questions for small businesses. Council members asked for specificity from impacted restaurants so staff can identify exemptions, delays or other administrative accommodations if appropriate and within the law.
Next steps: Mr. McNamara will submit concerns to the Town Clerk by July 15; Council will place the item on the August agenda for discussion and any potential follow-up by staff.
