Starkville Eyes New $10 Million Hotel to Boost Local Tourism and Economic Growth

Starkville Could Welcome a New $10 Million Hotel

In the cozy town of Starkville, significant changes might be on the horizon with a proposed tax abatement deal that could lead to the construction of a shiny new $10 million hotel. If the county gives its nod of approval in a meeting set for early December, locals may soon find themselves with more options for overnight stays.

What’s Happening Right Now?

During a recent city board meeting, the board of aldermen approved their part of a 12-year tax abatement deal, showing enthusiasm after a private briefing from the CEO of Golden Triangle Development LINK. The deal is still under wraps regarding the specific hotel brand, but insiders say it’s expected to feature around 85 rooms.

The project is crucial for the city, especially since current Starkville hotels only offer a total of 875 rooms. On busy weekends filled with sports games or music events, the demand skyrockets to a staggering 1,200 rooms. “We’re in desperate need of additional hotel rooms in this community,” it was noted. “We’re currently short almost 300 rooms, particularly for events like those at Cornerstone Park.”

Why Is This Important?

Though the new hotel will generate merely about 15 jobs, it is widely believed that the economic ripple effect will be notable. It is acknowledged that while the job numbers may not compare to larger industrial projects, there’s much more at stake. “What truly matters is bringing visitors to our town,” it was emphasized. “They eat, shop, and fill up on gas here, contributing to the local economy.”

Breaking the Numbers Down

According to the chair of the city’s budget committee, the tax abatement agreement is capped at $1 million or 12 years, whichever comes first. Both the city and county will share the incentive funded primarily through ad valorem taxes, while the city will also tap into a portion of its sales tax for this initiative.

After the county board of supervisors holds their vote on December 2, things could move quickly. If everything goes smoothly, Starkville could see this hotel up and running in as little as 18 months.

Changes In Local Liquor Laws

In addition to hotel news, the board also approved adjustments to the city’s alcohol ordinances, which means businesses can now request exemptions from the requirement to earn at least 25% of their revenue from food in order to sell beer or light wine. “Heightened security days” such as sports events will now require businesses selling liquor to have a security guard present from 11 p.m. until a half-hour after closing time. A proactive approach is being adopted to ensure safety and compliance.

For those businesses open in the Leisure and Entertainment District past 11 p.m., or those granted an exemption, surveillance cameras will soon be required as a means of further enhancing safety protocols.

What’s Next?

The proposed hotel and changes in liquor laws mark significant moments for Starkville, showing the city’s intent to boost tourism and improve safety for patrons. There is a sense of cautious optimism in town, with hopes that the right investments will lead to further evolution.

As discussions unfold, the community stays engaged in the process, keeping an eye on developments contributing to growth.