Gambling establishment allegedly owes Louisiana school system huge sum of cash
Aspiring Million-Dollar Dispute:
L'Auberge Casino Resort vs Calcasieu Parish School Board*** Louisiana*** Penn Entertainment ** Financial Matter Chris Reed, KPEL
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The Calcasieu Parish School Board is locking horns with L'Auberge Casino Resort in Lake Charles, over a hefty financial dispute.
According to local news, KPLC-TV, the school district alleges that L'Auberge has failed to cough up $2 million in taxes from 2021 to 2023, accompanied by a staggering $1 million in interest and penalties.
L'Auberge, countering the claim, spoke to KPC, saying:
"Though L'Auberge pays a unique Calcasieu Parish tax on complimentary hotel rooms, there's a disagreement on a second tax despite no recent changes in state or parish laws."
The controversy is centered around the taxation of complimentary rooms. According to the school board, these rooms, even if free, should be taxed as per a local law enacted in 1991.
However, L'Auberge argues that this tax is based on a new interpretation of the law, despite no changes in the state or parish regulations. The casino has reportedly filed a petition to the Louisiana Board of Tax Appeals, highlighting their compliance with the local complimentary room tax, but challenging the additional tax demanded by the school board. The primary bone of contention lies in the taxation of free hotel stays, a frequent promotional strategy.
In this dispute between the Calcasieu Parish School Board and L'Auberge Casino Resort, the casino has argued that there's a disagreement regarding a second tax on casino-games and casino-culture elements like complimentary hotel rooms, despite no recent changes in state or parish laws. This controversy unfolding in Louisiana's casino-and-gambling industry revolves around the taxation of complimentary rooms, with the school board asserting that these rooms should be taxed according to a local law enacted in 1991, while L'Auberge believes this tax is based on a new interpretation of the law.
