MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo. (KOAA) — Manitou Springs faces a nearly $4 million budget shortfall in 2026 due to lost sales tax revenue. Next week, voters will decide whether to approve a significant increase to the city's excise tax on tourism excursions.

The proposed measure would give city leaders the authority to raise the excise tax from its current 5% rate, unchanged since the 1970s, up to 14%. The tax targets popular tourist attractions like the city's zip lines, Cliff Dwellings and other adventure activities.

"I'd prefer to not have to do this, let's put it that way. We need to figure out how we're gonna pay the city's bills," said Mayor John Graham.

The budget crisis stems from the city's loss of marijuana tax revenue.

On April 15, Colorado Springs dispensaries were allowed to sell r

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