Dear Chamber Member,

Last week the Chamber learned that the County of Santa Barbara will consider an increase to the transient occupancy tax from 12% to 14%. As a diverse membership of lodging, restaurant, attractions and transportation businesses, we strongly oppose any transient occupancy tax (TOT) increase within the County of Santa Barbara. The loss of travelers to neighboring counties, as well as the loss of dollars for customers to spend at our restaurants and retail outlets, would add even more of a burden to an already challenging business environment.

Due to the seriousness of this issue and its potential impact to your business, and the economic vitality of the region, join us in collaboration with Visit Santa Barbara and consider cosigning the attached letter today to the County Board of Supervisors.

How to sign on: Please use corrected email below

To have your name added to the document, please email James Minton today at James@SantaBarbaraCA.com and include your personal name, title and business name (as you’d like it to appear on the letter). A final version with all cosigned participants will be shared with the supervisors prior to their meeting on June 4, 2024.

What if your business isn’t in the unincorporated county?

If you believe this tax increase would impact you, we encourage you to engage on this issue. Our region is one integrated economy where our visitors, their dollars and your employees cross city and county lines continuously.

Thank you for your urgent action,

Kristen Miller

President & CEO