The idea of a room levy is surfacing in Bridgewater.
It would see local hotels and motels charge a fee per night that could help pay for tourism-related initiatives.
Bridgewater Mayor David Mitchell says a $2 fee could help raise $70,000 annually between the town and Municipality of the District of Lunenburg.
“It would be a large pot of money if we encompass most of the South Shore and it would also remove the burden off taxpayers. It’s kind of a win-win in my opinion.”
Mitchell says the room levy concept is common in Nova Scotia and across Canada.
He doesn’t feel it would deter people from coming here.
“Everywhere I have travelled, there is a room levy. It’s not part of the posted rate. You don’t really know until after and I think people are accustomed to it.”
He believes a discussion will be held with other mayors in Lunenburg and Queens counties when they meet again.
