Placer supervisors vote to place 2% TOT increase on November ballot for Western Slope

The Board of Supervisors voted June 9 to place a measure on the November 3, 2026 ballot asking Western Slope voters to approve a transient-occupancy-tax (TOT) increase from 8% to 10% in unincorporated Western Placer. County staff framed the proposal as a measure to align Western Slope TOT with rates in other unincorporated and incorporated jurisdictions in the county and region.

Joel Joyce and others explained that proponents anticipate incremental revenues of roughly $350,000–$400,000 annually for county priorities if the measure passes, though staff emphasized volatility in TOT receipts from private short-term-rental operators. “Should the voters approve this measure to increase the TOT tax by 2%, we anticipate an additional $350 to $400,000 range,” staff said.

Supporters from the lodging and visitor bureau testified in favor, noting visitor spending and the county’s role in maintaining services used by visitors. Rob Haswell, executive director of the Placer County Visitors Bureau, told the board the increase would align the unincorporated Western Slope with other local jurisdictions and noted tourism generated $1.57 billion in visitor spending in 2025.

Opponents and several public commenters asked that any new revenue be dedicated to housing, public safety or clearly defined local priorities. Board members noted the proposed ordinance creates a general tax; if approved by voters it could be used for any lawful county purpose. Supervisors asked staff to prepare language and an ordinance for a second reading (June 30) and to place the measure on the November ballot if the board affirms the action at that meeting.

What happens next: staff will return with final ordinance language and the board will consider a second reading on June 30 to place the TOT increase on the November ballot. If voters approve the measure, the new 10% rate would apply to unincorporated Western Slope lodging upon certification.