Local Option Sales Tax Receipts Rise In Ketchum

(AP) - Officials in Ketchum say their local option sales tax receipts have risen steadily over the past six
months. March totals for the so-called "tourist tax" show a 4.5 percent increase compared to March 2011. Officials see the hike as a good sign for an economy so closely tied to the ski and recreation industry.

The Idaho Mountain Express reports that LOT receipts are up 4.7 percent in the fiscal year that began Oct. 1 compared to a year ago. The city collects a 2 percent sales tax on lodging and liquor
sold by the glass, and 1 percent on retail sales. Despite the positive news, figures show slower growth in lodging receipts. Room receipts increased by just 1 percent in March and are down 15 percent since October.