Branson targets 2027 legislative goals

Cleaning up 76 Country Blvd., tourism issues, affordable housing head the list

On July 14, 2026, the Branson Board of Aldermen (Board) met in a study session. It was an informational and planning session to plan their goals for the 2027 state lawmaking session. 

Here is the list of their goals, starting with the most important one:

Cleaning up 76 Country Boulevard

One priority is to fix the rundown areas on Highway 76, specifically Segments 7 and 8 between the Highway 65 exit and the Branson Auto & Farm Museum. Right now, Branson does not have the legal power to offer property owners low-cost loans to tear down old buildings. The city wants state lawmakers to create a special rule just for Branson so they can finally clean up this area.

Tourism taxes and ticket sales 

The city wants to fix rules that let third-party ticket sellers avoid paying taxes on the extra money they charge. Right now, Branson only collects taxes on the original ticket price, which means the city loses out on money it should be getting.

Tourism development zones 

The Board wants the state to create special zones to help pay for large projects, similar to what Tennessee does. This idea does not exist in Missouri yet, but it would send state tax money back to the city to help tourism grow.

Welcome signs 

Branson wants to work with the state transportation department to put up large welcome signs at highway exits. This would help guide the millions of visitors who come to the city and give them a proper greeting.

Affordable housing for workers 

There is a serious lack of housing for average working families in Branson. The Board would like a clear plan for building more affordable housing instead of just waiting for state grants to become available.

Water and sewer funding 

There are about 13,000 full-time Branson residents, but it can host up to 300,000 visitors at once. This puts a huge strain on the city’s water and sewer systems. The Board is asking the state for special grants because current rules often punish Branson for making too much money from tourism.

Pedestrian safety 

The Board wants the state to be more flexible and help them make state-owned roads safer for walkers. They want money and permission to add things like crosswalks, special traffic signals and sidewalks.

Clear fees 

Ticket sellers and businesses often add extra fees to receipts that look like city taxes. Tourists then blame the city for these high costs. The Board wants a state law that forces businesses to clearly separate actual city taxes from their own extra fees.

Long-term hotel rules 

State law currently says anyone staying 31 days or more is a permanent resident. This makes it hard for local police and health officials to enforce safety rules at long-term motels that are basically being used as apartments. The city wants the state to clarify these rules.

Cutting red tape 

The Board wants the state government to remove confusing rules and barriers that make it hard to do business. This would help local government support small businesses and make the local economy stronger.

Mental health and drug resources 

Members of the Board pointed out that untreated mental health and drug problems are the main causes of homelessness. They are asking the state for more resources to help local police protect the public and help people who are in a crisis.

This was just an initial planning meeting, and no Board action was taken. They will not become effective without further action from the Board.