The hotel tax is a go.
The City of Salmon Arm, in collaboration with the Salmon Arm Economic Development Society, has been notified that its application to introduce a two per cent Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT), or hotel tax, on purchases of accommodation has been approved by the provincial government, effective June 1.
“The City of Salmon Arm is very pleased to announce that our MRDT application has been approved,” said Mayor Nancy Cooper. “We appreciate the work of the Salmon Arm Economic Development Society and look forward to using the funds to support shoulder-season events and increase tourism to our area.”
A news release from the city states that the MRDT tax program is intended to contribute to an increase in local tourism revenue, visitation and economic benefits and is supported by local government and tourism stakeholders. Jointly administered by the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training, and Destination British Columbia, the MRDT program principles include:
• Effective tourism marketing programs and projects;
• Effective local-level stakeholder support and inter-community collaboration;
• Marketing efforts that are coordinated and complementary to regional and provincial marketing strategies and tactics; and
• Fiscal prudence and accountability.