BUFFALO, N.Y. — The city of Buffalo is pausing the collection of amusement license fees that music venues were told they need to pay.
According to a letter obtained by 2 On Your Side, the city said:
"The collection of Amusement License fees is being temporarily paused. We have reviewed the ordinance and are looking to make adjustments. In the coming weeks, the City will work with the Common Council to resolve any issues."
The city sent letters to all music venues earlier in July saying that they needed to pay a licensing fee on a "per event" basis.
Some venue owners said the fees could total between $10,000 and $25,000 annually. Larger venues reported to Investigative Post, who first reported the story, that the fees could cost $100,000.
"I had gotten a lot of pushback since I represent Allentown, Chippewa, Cobblestone in the entertainment a lot of the entertainment districts, and they just felt like they were blindsided by it," said Fillmore District Councilmember Mitch Nowakowski.
The council is on recess for the month of August, so the administration and lawmakers won't be able to address the issue until the body returns in September.
Council President Chris Scanlon and Delaware District Councilman Joe Feroleto also support the pause.
"While the amusement licensing fee is on pause, I will be meeting with small businesses and venues from across the city to gather input and feedback, working with them to ensure these vital venues and our arts and cultural scene continue to thrive and remain assets to our city and region," Scanlon said in a statement.
Feroleto also said in a statement that he was pleased with the pause, as his district also has several music venues.