Nanaimo is one step closer to charging tourists a new two-per cent tax.
Nanaimo city council approved the first three readings of a bylaw that would allow visitors to be charged a two-per cent tax on accommodation bills. The dollars generated will help pay for and market tourism attractions in the Harbour City.
Councillors also agreed to have staff look into inking an agreement with the Nanaimo Hospitality Association to distribute the dollars the municipality collects on its behalf.
“As long as I’ve been sitting here, this has been a work in progress,” said Coun. Bill Bestwick. “It’s absolutely imperative and critical ... I would just like to compliment all those that were involved in getting it to the stage where it’s at.”
The next step will be for the city and the hospitality association to get approval from the province.