Despite the objections of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, the Owensboro City Commission approved an amendment to the approved city budget for a tax increase and to keep Hillcrest Golf Course open. Mayor Ron Payne and commissioners Jeff Sanford, Pam Smith-Wright, and Bob Glenn voted in favor while Commissioner Debbie Nunley had the only no vote.
The occupational and net profit tax rates will be raised from their current 1.33 percent to 1.39 percent. This increase will generate enough revenue to cover the Hillcrest Golf Course deficit and provide funds for the city’s commitment to help fund the construction of the International Bluegrass Music Museum.
Hillcrest Golf course has been the subject of much debate as supporters of the golf course have turned out to oppose the city’s planned closure and selling of the course to save tax money.
