Crown Point considers 1% food and beverage tax as local chamber opposes proposal

Crown Point is considering a new 1% food and beverage tax, pending state approval and local public hearings. The proposal is opposed by the Crown Point Chamber of Commerce, which gathered feedback from local businesses against the tax. State Rep. Julie Olthoff supports the tax, stating it could generate revenue for local projects, including improvements to the Lake County Courthouse and Jail. The proposal has been introduced in the State House and will undergo several legislative steps. If approved, the tax could take effect as early as September 1, 2025. Crown Point would join Merrillville and Hammond as the third community in Northwest Indiana to implement this tax.