Town Council in Swan River has passed an Accommodation Tax by-law, which they hope to have take effect by January 1st, as long at it receives Lieutenant Governor in Council approval by then.
The intent of the tax, which will be 5 per cent and will be collected by all accommodations in the town, including hotels, motels and short-term rentals, is to generate revenue used for community enhancement, public safety, recreation and active living, and special events, organizations, or projects that will encourage tourism in Swan River.
There are several exceptions where the accommodation tax will not be charged.
They include patients or residents in a hospital or care home, athletes competing for a Swan Valley sports club that is being billeted within the community, and accommodations supplied and operated by an employer for their employees.
Other exceptions include time-shared agreements and stays longer than 30 days, as well as hospitality rooms that do not contain a bed or are used for displaying items or holding meetings.
