Highland Falls board approves 5% hotel occupancy tax in 3–2 vote

The Village of Highland Falls Board of Trustees on Sept. 2 adopted an amendment to Chapter 212 to impose a local hotel occupancy tax on transient residential units, passing the resolution on a 3–2 roll-call vote.

Supporters, including the mayor, said the tax will provide a modest, targeted revenue stream for local infrastructure without raising property taxes. The board’s resolution follows parallel action at the town level and state authorization that permits villages to levy a local occupancy tax. In explaining the decision the mayor said the local tax would be borne by visitors: "If a room was $250, we're talking about $12.50," he said, noting the village intends to use proceeds for streets, curbs and other infrastructure needs.

During the public hearing, hotel and short‑term rental operators warned that an added levy could reduce competitiveness with nearby communities and urged careful implementation and enforcement. Several residents and property owners argued the fee channels revenue to the village rather than stretching resident property-tax bills. The law authorizes collection of up to the statutory 5% local rate; the board did not stipulate a rate schedule beyond adopting the local-law authorization. The board voted 3–2 on the resolution; the measure will be implemented following local administrative steps and any required county/state processing.