The motel tax started just over a year ago is doing better than original projections.
A comparison from May, 2015 through March, 2016 shows a total this year of $82,279 received, just over $12,000 ahead of the same period during the first year the tax was enacted. For the 23 months covered in the report, $159,300 has been brought in.
The money is generated through taxes paid by people staying in the motels around down. According to city officials, represents "new money" that can be used to boost the community.
Funds from the motel tax are designed for parks and recreation, tourism and beautification.
Original estimates said the tax would generate between $3,000 and $5,000 a month.
So far during the May, 2015 through March, 2016 period, an average of $7,479 has been brought in each month. That is up $1,000 over the same period a year ago.
When showed the figures, Henryetta mayor Jennifer Clason pointed out, "the hotel and motel owners have been a vital part of the success of this tax. It has allowed our parks board to set goals to improve the quality of life in our city."