PEMBROKE — Renfrew County tourism accommodators are invited to attend upcoming information sessions on the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT).
Effective December 1, 2017, the Province of Ontario granted municipalities the authority to implement a tax on transient accommodations of 30 days or less. The decision of implementing a MAT, and what that MAT would look like, is up to each individual municipality. Should a municipality decide to implement a MAT, the revenues must be shared at least 50 percent with an eligible tourism entity for tourism development and marketing efforts. The municipality would be able to keep the other 50 percent and use it as they see fit.
MAT information sessions are being hosted by the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA) in various locations across Renfrew County the week of February 4th. Owners and operators of traditional accommodation businesses including: hotel and motels, bed & breakfasts and inns, lodges and resorts, cottages and cottage rental properties, as well as Airbnb hosts, are encouraged to attend.
“Engaging with the industry, getting their input and involving them in the discussion is vital if any productive conversations around the MAT are to take place,” explains Chris Hinsperger, President of the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association. “The industry’s feedback will help guide the OVTA Board of Directors’ recommendation regarding the implementation of a MAT within Renfrew County, which will be presented to County Council.”
All information sessions are free to attend and will
take place from 6pm – 8pm. The dates and locations are:
- Monday, February 4: Deep River Legion, 50 McElligott Drive, Deep River
- Tuesday, February 5: Killaloe Lion’s Hall, 18 Lake Street, Killaloe
- Wednesday, February 6: Neat Coffee Shop, 1715 Calabogie Road, Burnstown
- Thursday, February 7: Germania Club, 15 Bennett Street, Pembroke
Accommodation operators who would like to attend can register at www.bit.ly/MAT_info.
For background information on the MAT, including frequently asked questions, visit www.bit.ly/FAQ_MAT.
The Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA) is the official destination marketing organization for the Upper Ottawa Valley and proudly represents more than 225 tourism businesses, comprised of attractions and events, accommodation, dining and retail establishments, rafting companies and outfitters, artists and galleries, as well as media and industry suppliers. The OVTA is proudly supported by the County of Renfrew, Renfrew County municipalities and the City of Pembroke.
