Paula Peterson
On November 8, voters in South Lake Tahoe are tasked with selecting not only local and national leadership, but they are also faced with raising taxes. Measure P is on the ballot, but it is very different than other taxes, and let me explain why.
The measure is asking for a two-percent increase in the tax added onto hotel and motel rooms, and vacation rentals, anything that is enforced by a transit occupancy tax (TOT), meaning lodging accommodations rented under 30 days. The TOT is currently 10 percent on all rooms except for those in the Tourist Core/redevelopment area, which is currently at 12 percent. The rates would go to 12 and 14 percent respectively.
Locals won’t be paying the tax, but they will be able to reap the benefits.
Funds raised through Measure P will secure a bond that will create a new SLT Recreation Complex, one that will not only attract future basketball, indoor soccer and swimming tournaments, but one that will provide a new benefit to living and playing on the South Shore. The extra two percent in taxes raised each year will go to pay back the bond.
The lodging community knows a new swim and recreation complex will be an added benefit to coming to South Lake Tahoe. They are supporting the increase in TOT as they can see the benefits to the guests as well as the locals. Both their guests and residents will have a new place to play.
By law, funds from this measure may only be used for recreation in South Lake Tahoe, and priority will be given to the construction of a new Recreation and Swim Complex on Rufus Allen Boulevard. The measure calls for strict accountability so residents won’t have to worry about funds being used for purposes other than recreation.
Part of the new complex may be the future home of the Lake Tahoe Boys & Girls Club, something they desperately need with the potential loss of their current home at the Al Tahoe Elementary School.
The proposed swim area will have a lazy river, so adults looking for exercising in a pool will have a new, and fun, place to do so. Climbing walls and large courts are also in the proposed plan.
The community will also benefit because of the added meeting spaces that will be built at the new center. It is always tough to find a place to meet in the community, and the proposed multi-level rec center with both first floor and second floor meeting spots will serve many, including a place for future galas and other fundraisers instead of having to rely on casino spaces.
– A year-round recreation and swim complex for use by residents and visitors
– Space for after-school and vacation youth programs to be offered by the Boys and Girls Club and Parks and Recreation Department to all residents
– Year-round swim facilities for public lessons, competitions, family recreation, injury rehabilitation and senior exercise
– A multiuse gym with courts for local youth and adult athletics
– Competitive sports facilities to host tournaments and attract year-round visitors to stimulate our economy
– Low-cost event space for celebrations and gatherings
– Affordable exercise facilities available to all residents
Misconception by many that the TOT is added to those living in motels since those are the residents that can least afford an increase in taxes, but TOT is not added to anything that is rented for more than 30 days or to properties designated as apartments.