Jackson’s 2-percent lodging tax is up for a vote in November, and a new breakdown by Jackson Hole News&Guide shows 40-percent of lodging tax revenues go back to the county. Unlike Jackson’s 60-40 split, most towns only see about 10-percent of revenues from their lodging taxes – the rest going back into tourism.
The tax had been up for a vote ever since 1994, but had been continually struck down over fears it would hinder tourism. The measure finally passed in 2010 after promises of higher returns for the local economy.
Kate Sollitt, Executive Director of the Jackson Hole Tourism Board, said because of these higher returns, residents are finally coming around to the tax.
"Because 40 percent is really used to mitigate visitor impact, the benefits to the community are tremendous. And I believe the community is recognizes those benefits, and therefore seeing the advantages of having the tax," she said.
She also said the 2-percent tax is a relatively low price to pay – and most visitors already expect the extra taxes.
"Anytime you check out of a hotel there are always taxes that are imposed on your bill in addition to just the city tax and 2 percent at the end of the day is not a lot of money for the visitor. And it hasn’t impacted our tourism at all. Our tourism has been growing tremendously," she said.
According to the breakdown, Jackson’s lodging tax revenues have been used to fund bus routes, a new ambulance, maintenance of trails and bathrooms, and tourism marketing during the area’s off-season.?