Reviewed by: Pat Byington
New Prattville lodging tax increase aims to boost education funding
Reading time: 3 minutes
Visitors booking hotels or short-term rentals in Prattville will soon see an update to their bills following a new lodging tax ordinance passed by city leaders this week.
During the Tuesday, Sept. 15 meeting, the city council unanimously approved an amendment to Chapter 38 of the City Code of Ordinances regarding transient occupancy taxes. Following the required public notification process, the updated rate will officially take effect on Jan. 1, 2027, the city’s finance department confirms.
Sponsored by Council President Michael Whaley, the ordinance introduces a $5-per-night surcharge per booking. The new fee will apply to hotels, motels and short-term rental properties like Airbnb. Currently, the city levies a $2 nightly fee, meaning the new addition brings the total surcharge to $7 per night.
How the Prattville lodging tax increase will support local schools
The approval comes as city leaders actively evaluate the future of public education in the area. Prattville officials have been weighing whether to break off from the Autauga County School System to establish their own independent municipal school district. Leaders recognized early in the evaluation process that launching or maintaining high-quality educational infrastructure would require additional funding.
The city has hired an educational consultant to help guide council members through the decision-making process. While exact allocations have not been finalized, officials confirmed the revenue generated from the Prattville lodging tax update will go toward the new city school system if formed, or directly to Autauga County schools if Prattville remains in the current system.
“We are going to have to find additional revenue for education regardless of the decision that’s made by this council moving forward on a city school system or not.”
– Council President Whaley
A proactive solution for Prattville’s educational future
City leaders view the unanimous vote as a vital step toward long-term growth and community prosperity. By tapping into visitor spending through local stays, Prattville can channel dedicated, sustainable funding directly into local classrooms, helping elevate learning environments for students without adding a direct tax burden on local homeowners.
How do you think this new funding approach will impact the future of public education in Prattville? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook.
