HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0449.002 2020-2022 P/
ill 1
Comm.qqq
From: Georjean Adams
Sent: Thursday, October 14, 2021 3:58 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Finance Committee 10/19/21 Bill 81 TAT
I
I support Bill 81 to increase the Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT)up to 3%to replace the loss of tax fund
allocations from the state.
i
This revenue should not be treated as a general fund to be raided for whatever budget shortfalls may arise, but should
be dedicated to the original purpose of the TAT: "...to offset the impacts of visitor activities on county infrastructures
and services." To that end, there should be language in the bill to require county departments to identify
projected expenses resulting from visitor activities and for the Council to proportionately allocate funds to each
appropriate county department. E.g., Department of Environmental Management solid waste and wastewater
operations in locations frequented by tourists and its environmental educational programs directed at tourists.
The county TAT should not be used to "soak the tourists" nor to duplicate fees already paid by accommodation
owners. We should be able to tell tourists that we are legitimately charging this added tax for benefits they receive
from our county.
Georjean Adams
Kamuela, HI 96743
Mr-
Cornm.NCL
Ref lb: VILL
1 Ref.Do 3 9 2021