As Enid voters are preparing to consider the proposed hotel tax initiative on the ballot on August 25, here are the facts behind the proposal and why it is being considered.
The proposal would increase Enid’s hotel tax from 8% to 12%, generating an estimated $700,000 in additional annual revenue. Because the tax is paid by people staying in local hotels and motels, it is funded by visitors—not by local households.
For the average hotel guest, the increase would amount to approximately $4 to $6 per night, depending on the room rate.
Communities throughout Oklahoma compete aggressively to attract sporting events, conferences, concerts, and visitors. According to a 2026 Sports Events & Tourism Association study, 94% of destinations provided financial incentives or funding to attract or retain sporting events in 2025. Additional funding would help Enid remain competitive when pursuing these opportunities.
Additional revenue could help:
Every visitor who stays overnight spends money beyond their hotel room. They dine in local restaurants, shop in local stores, purchase fuel, and attend community events. Those dollars support local businesses and generate additional sales tax that benefits the entire community.
The goal: use visitor-generated revenue to strengthen Enid’s economy while enhancing amenities residents enjoy every day.
Below are additional resources on the proposal.
Enid Hotel Tax - City of Enid Oklahoma
Enid Hotel Tax Initiative | Support Enid Tourism – Get Informed & Vote