Town seeking input on the implementation of a Municipal Accommodation Tax

BRACEBRIDGE, ON (October 8, 2024) – Town of Bracebridge Council approved the implementation of a Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) in October 2023 and is now seeking public input to understand current needs, challenges and opportunities. Tourism stakeholders and members of the community are invited to review the project details and complete an online survey by Sunday, October 20 at engagebracebridge.ca/MAT.

Currently, Bracebridge is the only urban centre in Muskoka that does not levy the tax. A MAT could generate revenue to help support local tourism initiatives and strategic priorities

Following public consultation, staff will report back to Council with the results along with a proposed implementation plan.

Background
On May 17, 2017, the Province enacted Bill 127, Stronger, Healthier Ontario Act 2017, which provides single and lower-tier municipalities with the authority to levy a transient accommodation tax or MAT. Later that year, the Province enacted Ontario Regulation 435/17: Transient Accommodation Tax, which contains the provisions necessary to implement a MAT in accordance with s. 400.1 of the Municipal Act, 2001. The Regulation allows single and lower-tier municipalities the ability to implement a MAT through a by-law with a set tax rate. The Regulation also permits municipalities to enter into agreements with entities to collect a MAT, acting as agents for the municipality, and prescribes a revenue sharing disposition formula where some of the proceeds are transferred to an eligible local tourism organization.

Ontario Regulation 435/17 is permissive in scope, allowing municipalities to apply a MAT to various accommodation sectors, provided the accommodation is short-term in nature. The public consultation will help identify agency needs and interest in applying the MAT.

Tourism in Bracebridge
Bracebridge is home to a vibrant tourism sector that welcomes an influx of visitors annually to enjoy local attractions, seasonal properties, festivals, events and more. Tourism is a significant contributor to the local economy, as well as community health and wellbeing. Through the Town’s Economic Development Branch, the Town partners with various organizations including Muskoka Tourism, Explorer’s Edge, the Downtown BIA and the Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce to support local tourism businesses in driving interest and attraction to the area.

To learn more about a municipal accommodation tax and provide your feedback, visit engagebracebridge.ca/MAT.

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About Bracebridge – The Town of Bracebridge is located in the Heart of Muskoka, the epitome of Canada’s Cottage Country.  With a population in excess of 17,000 permanent residents that doubles during the summer months, the community has a diversified economy that is highlighted by strong construction, hospitality and professional sectors. Bracebridge is the steward of the cottage country brand and is teaching the world the power of living the Muskoka lifestyle in its spirit, the arts, food, home and recreation. The Town is positioned on the 45th parallel, halfway between the Equator and the North Pole, and is recognized as Santa’s summer home.




MEDIA CONTACT
Town of Bracebridge
media@bracebridge.ca