Be careful what you wish, or vote, for.
I’m a very strong advocate for the lodgers tax, just not the one we’re voting on.
The idea is sound but, the percentage allocations are way off. Perhaps the needs it addresses should also be reconsidered. And, when we all know the one thing we can count on in life is change, why make these allocations permanent and in perpetuity?
Shoulder season and mid-week tourism? We’re not prepared for an increase there or in our prime summer months. And how long would it take to build the necessary amenities to accommodate the results and impacts of that increase: e.g., convention center, parking garages.
Look how long it took us to revisit the original tax!
Reject this poorly thought-out and written ordinance. If there’s really enthusiasm for an increase in the lodgers tax, we should take the time to consider the depth and breadth of our local needs and the impacts of increased tourism. That will allow us to wisely choose the areas to which we allocate revenue. We can work together and make sure it happens soon - November of this year or April or November of ‘22 or April of ‘23.
Salye SteinDurango
