Montezuma County presenters recommend 5% lodgers tax on November ballot to boost tourism funding

Presenters asked the Montezuma County Board of Commissioners to place a measure on the November ballot that would raise the county lodgers tax, proposing 5% as the preferred level to fund tourism promotion, infrastructure and a reserve for emergencies.

The presenters said the projections use $13 million in annual lodging collections. They told commissioners a move to 3% would generate about $130,000 more annually, 4% about $260,000, 5% about $391,000 and 6% about $521,000 in additional revenue. “We suggested as a group that a 5% lodging tax increase would be about right for us,” the presenters said. The presenters recommended dedicating new revenue to clearly defined tourism and infrastructure uses, maintaining annual reporting and coordinating with lodging operators.

Why it matters: Presenters framed the increase as a way to secure visitor-funded marketing and long‑term planning without raising property taxes. They said money could create a tourism resiliency reserve for wildfire, drought or other catastrophes and expand shoulder‑season events that could raise overnight stays.

Commissioners and stakeholders pressed on competitiveness and who would pay. County participants emphasized that the tax applies to paid lodging (hotel rooms and campsites) and that local residents generally do not bear the cost unless they rent locally. Commissioners asked whether voter approval was required; staff clarified the measure would be a countywide ballot question and would require voter approval before changing the tax rate.

Next steps: Staff said county attorneys will draft ballot language and presenters offered sample language and outreach support. The board did not take a final vote in this meeting; staff said the formal decision about placing a measure on the ballot will be made at the next business meeting, and presenters asked the county to proceed with stakeholder engagement and voter education if the board advances the proposal.

What the record shows: The board heard the revenue scenarios, stakeholder concerns about lodging‑industry competitiveness and the presenters’ recommendation for 5%; no formal ballot placement or vote was recorded at this meeting.