HOT SPRINGS — A 3 percent tax on hotels rooms and restaurant meals in Hot Springs has generated $5 million for the first time in its 48-year history.
Revenue from December 2011 through November 2012 brought in $5.02 million. Even though that’s a record for the Hot Springs Advertising and Promotions Board, director Steve Arrison says he hoped for a stronger performance.
The Sentinel-Record reported that the single largest driver behind the tax is the live thoroughbred racing season at Oaklawn Park.
This year, the track had a strong opening day that was followed by a washout of two racing days due to heavy rain. The track reopened Thursday for the long holiday weekend, which brought sunny skies and mild temperatures.