MONTROSE, Colo. (KREX) — Jagged mountains, old-style towns, rich history and especially fall colors bring people from all around the world to the Western Slope.
Montrose sees hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, but your next stay lies in the hands of local voters.
Last week, Montrose City Council unanimously voted to place a lodging tax increase from 0.9% to 6% on the upcoming general election ballot this November.
Montrose Mayor David Reed says in order to maintain a solid infrastructure for both locals and those passing through, the city must have the funding, which will be paid for by those staying in Airbnbs, Vrbos and hotels.
While the raise from 0.9% to 6% is a pretty dramatic difference, WesternSlopeNow learned it will still sit below the state average, which is 6.7%.
Montrose's Long Term Capital Improvements Plan has over $6 million this year. The lodging tax will not add to but replace some of that money. The money replaced will go to affordable housing and street and sidewalk maintenance.
Front Desk Manager at Black Canyon Motel Jennie January says while it may increase visitors' bill, she thinks it won't deter people from staying.
Again, this is not a final decision just yet - voters in November are the last step of the process.