What are Your Thoughts?

The Longmont Area Visitors Association (LAVA) has sought and gained approval from the Longmont City Council to include an initiative to place a 2% lodging tax back on this November’s ballot for Longmont voter approval. 

This measure would tax only visitors to our community for overnight stays in any motel, hotel, or bed and breakfast.  The funds generated, an estimated $ 380,000.00 per year would be used by LAVA to promote tourism to our community.

Founded in 2005 and relying solely on a city subsidy of $ 30,000.00 and the Longmont Chamber of Commerce’s support of their office space and other in kind help, LAVA is trying to fiscally and viably promote our city for tourism, conventions, and other events that would bring revenue to the city in tax and use fees.

This same measure was on last year’s ballot and was defeated by a margin of : 58% against and 42% pro.  LAVA believes that residents were concerned it would affect their tax burden when in fact it is only visitors that have to pay the tax.  Most hotel/motel operators are for the tax as the added benefit of LAVA’s marketing efforts will bring more visitors to the area thus benefiting them. This funding is needed by LAVA and would be a huge benefit to not only hoteliers but to the business community as well.

Our question to you:

How do you think you will vote for the
Lodging Tax Measure?

Visit this month's opinion poll to answer.
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at our forums page.
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Written by: William Nichols

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