Let’s Set the Record Stright on Proposed Bed Tax

I would like to acknowledge Ray Adams’ May 15 letter, “Bed tax unnecessary and unfair to tourists,” and address several of his comments. His letter, although well-meaning, did contain several inaccuracies and misconceptions.

Taken in order, he stated that one of the facts I left out was “Martin County is a secondary tourist stop.” I called it a “low-profile destination.” Sorry about that! However you call it, I think we agree – but I didn’t leave it out.

He states that the Tourist Development Council (TDC) is a “commission-directed body with funding from general revenues.” Not true! By statute, the TDC is an appointed nine-member body made up of three elected officials and six uncompensated positions from the accommodations and tourism industries, and has absolutely zero funding.

As to his comment pertaining to the “trigger to 6 percent in three years,” there are specific criteria related to these possibilities which are contained in the statute. It is most unlikely that Martin County would ever qualify for all of these increases.

Believing “our summer tourism is usually limited to work crews or fishermen” only exhibits his uninformed knowledge of our industry. Beach and waterfront locations typically host many families, state associations and European visitors. However, there is need to market for more.

I am glad to say that I do agree on one point – that this is indeed “taxation without representation” as this tax generally would not be paid by Martin County residents. However, we did not write the rules to this game – the Florida Legislature did, as did other state and city governments around the country. It would be only prudent for us to play by the established rules just as 47 other Florida counties and their voters have decided.

Finally, I would like to address his comments about the motel chains having “800 reservation numbers” and “promotions from tourism agents.” “Tourism agents” would seldom market a “secondary” destination without some matching funding from that destination. Hotel chains typically do generic brand advertising, not specific destination marketing, which is presently limited to what is done by individual properties and the local hotel association.

I would respectfully recommend that Mr. Adams review the statute governing the bed tax for his personal clarification, and suggest that “Citizens for a

Sound Economy” recommend realistic, alternative funding sources for marketing Martin County. That would help.

Bill Pullen

President, Martin County

Hotel & Motel Association

Stuart