The Rockford City Council‘s code and regulation committee has given the green light to a new amusement tax specifically targeting Hard Rock Casino Rockford. After a thorough debate lasting nearly half an hour, council members agreed to implement this tax on performances at the casino.
“This is something that was negotiated into the agreement between the city and the Hard Rock some time ago,” stated 14th Ward Alderperson Mark Bonne (D). The newly approved tax imposes a 5% charge on those attending concerts and entertainment events at Hard Rock Casino.
This ordinance, approved on Monday night, places Hard Rock Casino among other taxed amusement venues such as the BMO Center and the Coronado Performing Arts Center. “It wouldn’t be fair for ticket buyers at the Coronado and BMO to be paying a tax that you’re not paying if you’re to see a show at the Hard Rock,” explained Ald. Bonne. This move aims to ensure fairness across all entertainment venues in the city.
The tax for potential athletic events at Hard Rock is slightly lower, set at 3%. Despite the lower rate, alderpersons emphasized the importance of this revenue stream in supporting Rockford’s redevelopment fund. This fund is crucial for financing local art and culture projects, as well as ongoing maintenance efforts. “That redevelopment fund is now currently used for the ongoing maintenance of the Coronado Theater,” added Ald. Bonne. The city owns the Coronado Theater, making its upkeep a significant priority.
Beyond maintaining the Coronado, the redevelopment fund also aids improvements for Embassy Suites, Millennium Fountain, and Davis Park. These projects are vital for the continuous enhancement of Rockford’s public spaces and community landmarks.
The city council committee’s decision aims to create a level playing field within the local entertainment sector, ensuring fair competition and bolstering downtown redevelopment efforts. The ordinance received unanimous support, passing the committee with a 5-0 vote. The proposal will now move to a full city council vote scheduled for July 8. “The goal, obviously, is to have the ordinance approved before the casino opens,” remarked Ald. Bonne, highlighting the urgency of the matter.
In response to the approved taxation, Hard Rock Casino Rockford President Geno Iafrate commented, “We are aware and monitoring the situation and have no further comment at this time.” This statement reflects the casino’s cautious stance as it prepares for its grand opening.
Hard Rock Casino Rockford’s permanent location is set to open its doors on August 29. The opening will feature grand performances by Brad Paisley and Joan Jett, marking a significant milestone for Rockford’s entertainment landscape.
In conclusion, the newly approved amusement tax by Rockford’s city council committee is a strategic move to ensure equitable taxation across all major entertainment venues. This initiative not only supports local redevelopment projects but also promotes fair competition within the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
