With implementation of Excelsior Springs’ voter-approved transient guest tax set to begin Jan. 1, 2027, city leaders are turning their attention to who will help guide the use of the tourism dollars.

City council members recently unanimously approved an ordinance establishing the administration, collection and enforcement procedures for the 5% tax. Following the vote, the council discussed a proposed seven-member Excelsior Springs Tourism Board that would recommend how to use the revenue, with the council retaining final budget approval.

The tax applies to charges for sleeping rooms paid by guests staying 31 days or fewer during a calendar quarter at hotels, motels, bed-and-breakfast establishments and short-term rentals within the city. The tax applies to the full charge for the sleeping room, while separately billed charges for goods or services distinct from the room are excluded. The tax must appear separately from other charges and taxes on a guest’s bill.

Hotels, motels, bed-and-bre…