County finalizes ballot question asking for lodging tax increase
On Nov. 5, voters will be asked to approve a lodging tax increase that would impact guests staying in hotels or short-term rentals
Gravity Haus Winter Park/Courtesy photo
This election, Grand County voters will see a question about a potential lodging tax increase on their ballots.
If Ballot Issue 1A is approved by voters, the lodging tax would increase from 1.8% to 2% beginning January 2025. The increase will only affect visitors who stay in hotels or short-term rentals.
Previously, lodging tax funds could only be used for tourism promotion.
“However, recent legislation (HB22-1117, Use of Local Lodging Tax Revenue) expanded the use of funds for other community priorities — such as housing and child care for people living and working in the community,” Grand County government stated.
At the Aug. 27 meeting, Grand County Board of County Commissioners passed a resolution to approve the question to appear on the ballot. The question was finalized Sept. 17.
In total, the increase could allow the lodging tax to generate about $2.25 million annually, according to Grand County’s estimates from 2023 data. These funds would go towards advertising and marketing for local tourism, child care and housing.
“This will allow the county to continue to market tourism and enhance the visitor experience, while funding housing and childcare for locals,” the county stated.
Residents have until Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. to return their ballots.
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