Libertyville Considers a Places for Eating Tax

LIBERTYVILLE, IL - Diners at Libertyville restaurants might soon have to pay a 1 percent “places for eating tax” as a way to increase new revenue for general expenses and to prepare for subsequent deficits.

The Daily Herald reports:

The tax is regarded as the least onerous of few options available to the village without voter approval. Because Libertyville is not a home-rule community, utility, amusement or places for eating taxes are its options. Utility taxes are regarded as nondiscretionary and to be considered only for financial emergencies. They also would have a greater and more direct impact on businesses versus the "pass through" tax, board members say. And without enough eligible amusements to raise a substantial amount, the places for eating tax became the choice.

Officials said the amount of the tax should be capped at 1 percent and a sunset clause added to the final version. The availability of electronic filing with the village and an exemption for private companies that contract food services with other local taxing districts are other conditions.

Trustees voted 5-1 to continue with the places for eating tax. The 1 percent tax is expected to produce about $700,000 in revenue.

>> Read more via the Daily Herald

Photo via mainstreetlibertyville.org