pages: CityCouncil/2019-04-16.pdf, 19
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CityCouncil | 2019-04-16 | 19 | None. COUNCIL REFERRALS (19-245) Consider Raising the Rate of the Hotel Tax (Transient Occupancy Tax). (Councilmember Daysog) Councilmember Daysog gave a Power Point presentation. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft noted the issue has been discussed as part of creating an AirBnB ordinance. Vice Mayor Knox White stated that he supports discussing the TOT tax at some point; discussed referrals being on a long list and not being addressed; stated an infrastructure bond and other measures are going to be discussed; the TOT should be discussed; one should not be jumped to the top of the queue. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated Vice Mayor Knox White seems to want the TOT folded into a discussion of ballot measures. Councilmember Vella stated the City should wait until some of the new hotels are built; she would rather focus on infrastructure; storm drains were discussed tonight; the City is focused on other things; she is saying no for right now; the referral should not go on a list; polling should be very specific and strategic to the few measures that have already been put forward by staff and discussed by Council. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the TOT would probably be easier to pass since residents will not have to pay the tax; that she has concerns about the money not going to the General Fund. Councilmember Oddie stated Council will discuss revenue measures at some point and the TOT needs to be included; it was proposed four years ago and maybe should have been done already; expressed concern about dedicating the use of the funds, which changes the threshold to pass; stated the TOT is a quick and easy way to generate revenue. Councilmember Daysog stated that he looks forward to further conversations on the TOT; 1% would generate $160,000 and 2% would generate roughly $250,000, which would be good money to go towards a visitor serving campaign; he is fine with having the TOT discussed as part of a more robust discussion of revenue measures. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS (19-246) Status of the Emma Hood Swim Center at Alameda High School. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 16 April 16, 2019 | CityCouncil/2019-04-16.pdf |