Joe Lhota Proposes to Lower the City's Hotel Tax

Everyone knows staying in New York City isn't cheap.  But could it be cheaper?  Joe Lhota thinks he's found a way. 

The New York City mayoral candidate released his policy book today.  It outlines the Republican's plans as mayor, if elected in November, including one to boost tourism.  

In his policy book, Lhota promises to lower the city's hotel tax to 5 percent.  Right now, visitors pay close to an additional 6 percent tax on their hotel bills, which the city then collects as revenue.  Sean Hennessey's the CEO of Lodging Advisors, a consulting firm in the hospitality industry.  He says lowering the hotel tax would attract more visitors, and could improve the economy as a whole.  

"Hotels have been one of the leaders across the city in terms of increased hiring from the depths of the post-2008 crash to the current recovery."

Hennessey says other city businesses, like restaurants and entertainment could also benefit.  Democratic opponent Bill de Blasio could not be reached for comment.  But reports say he avoided questions about the tax at a press conference last week.

Click here for Lhota's complete policy book.