In the Nov. 5 election, Ukiah voters will decide on Measure W, a ballot measure that would increase the city’s transient occupancy tax (TOT) from 10 percent to 13 percent.
The measure would increase the tax rate for customers booking temporary lodging like hotels, motels, vacation rentals and Airbnbs. The rate only applies to people staying in Ukiah for under 30 days. Fort Bragg is the only other city in Mendocino County with a TOT measure on November’s ballot.
Ukiah’s TOT rate has not increased since 2007, according to a staff report prepared by Deputy City Manager Shannon Riley. According to the report, “inflation and the cost of doing business in general has increased significantly, and the revenue generation has not kept pace with those changes.”
If the measure is approved by voters, there would be an estimated revenue of $420,000 annually that would provide support to the city of Ukiah for long-term budgeting. The funds would be channeled to crucial city functions like recreation programs, local parks and public safety.
The tax rate would increase the amount of tax on a hotel room by 3 percent. For example, if a hotel room costs $150 per night, the total tax would increase from $15 to $19.50 per night. The tax rate is commensurate with nearby areas.
According to the Ukiah City Council, there have been no arguments submitted against Measure W, which requires a majority vote to pass.