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Posted by: John_Hamilton on 10/19/2011 02:23 PM
Updated by: John_Hamilton on 10/19/2011 02:23 PM
Expires: 01/01/2016 12:00 AM
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Open Letter opposing 4% increase in TOT ~By Mary Trotter
Arnold, CA....An Open Letter to Calaveras County Board of Supervisors, Proponents of the 4.0% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) increase, and Calaveras Visitor’s Bureau Members. We, as hoteliers, vacation rental agencies, property managers, B&B owners, realtors, cabin owners, and business owners, are incensed regarding the proposal to raise the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) tax four percent (4.0%) and funnel those funds directly to a few special interest groups. We question if any of these groups are members of the Calaveras Visitors Bureau (CVB) or contribute to the TOT; yet, they are asking to piggy-back onto the TOT for their sole benefit. Also, we say “a few special interest groups” because when other nonprofit groups and other organizations become aware of this proposal for free money, we’re sure they will want to participate also....
The TOT tax is an integral part of Calaveras County’s revenue. Visitors who stay at our facilities pay a six (6%) TOT. Seventy percent (70%) of this tax goes into the County’s General Fund and part of that is allocated to roads and emergency services. Currently, the remaining 30% goes to the Calaveras Visitor’s Bureau. The dollar value, or ROI, of the CVB is immeasurable. The monies the CVB receives from the TOT allows them to market Calaveras County throughout the nation and bring people here to visit the many recreational, historical, and vacation retreats our county has to offer. Their efforts result in an increase in revenue of local businesses and subsequently, the revenues of this county. This benefits all.
The Visitor’s Bureau has no contract with the County, or guarantee, that they will receive thirty percent (30%) of the TOT every year. These groups are requesting an entitlement that will turn tourists away and slowly bleed tourism dollars and revenues of local businesses and Calaveras County. We would propose these groups donate their time and resources to help increase their own funds, as opposed to asking for an increase of the TOT.
I contend that for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle.
-- Winston Churchill --
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