Jefferson City’s Lodging Association is suing the city over its lodging tax — just days before voters decide whether to renew it.

The group of hotel and motel owners filed the lawsuit in Cole County Circuit Court, claiming the city’s lodging tax violates both Missouri law and the state constitution.

About 57% of the tax revenue goes toward a proposed downtown conference center. The association argues that using public tax dollars for that project serves a private, not public, purpose.

The lawsuit also challenges the tax rate, citing a state law that restricts lodging taxes to 5% per room per night.

Jefferson City’s lodging tax, which is paid by visitors to the city who stay in hotels or rentals, is set to expire in 2035, and is on the November 4 ballot for renewal through 2060 as Proposition A.