Board of Supervisors Places 2 Percent Hotel Increase Measure on November Ballot
On July 9th the Board of Supervisors voted to place a Santa Barbara County Essential Community Services Measure (2% Transient Occupancy Tax increase) on the November 5, 2024, General Election ballot for voter consideration.
If authorized by voters, the Measure would update the County’s existing transient occupancy tax (TOT) from its current 12% rate to 14%. The TOT would be paid by hotel/lodging guests in unincorporated areas, though all countywide registered voters would be eligible to vote on the Measure. The measure only requires a simple majority to enact.
“The budget outlook in upcoming fiscal years shows a deficit, which will make it increasingly difficult to fund local priorities that improve the quality of life in our County. If voters pass this Measure it would generate additional, locally controlled ongoing revenue,” said County Executive Officer Mona Miyasato.
If passed the ballot measure would provide approximately $3 million annually.
https://www.edhat.com/news/board-of-supervisors-places-2-percent-hotel-increase-measure-on-november-ballot/