EAST MOLINE, Ill. (KWQC) – East Moline’s 1.5 percent food and beverage tax is causing frustration among local business owners who feel the city has failed to keep its promises.

The tax was introduced to finance new hiring and performance improvements in the city, but many business owners doubt that the city will meet its obligations.

Connie Cornmesser, owner of Hey Bryan’s, a popular downtown bar, said the impact of this tax will be felt even more in the coming months.

“So far we have managed to retain our customers, but as we enter a quieter season we expect a decline.”

Cornmesser noted that although there have been some new hires, she has not seen the promised improvements in practice.

“The tax was sold to us as a way to fund needed city improvements, but so far we have seen no change.”

While many businesses are still adjusting to the change, they expect the city to keep its promises and use tax revenue effectively.

“When we as business owners pay taxes, we also have to follow rules and regulations. So we want you to go ahead and implement what you did first by passing this tax and do the work you promised.”

East Moline’s 1.5 percent food and beverage tax, which takes effect in March and filing begins in April, is only 60 percent adherent.

Notably, Moline and Rock Island already have similar taxes.

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