During a recent meeting of the New Shoreham Block Island Housing Board, members discussed potential changes to the town's seasonal rental tax legislation, which currently applies only to rental houses. The proposal aims to extend the 1% tax to all seasonal rentals, including hotels and bed and breakfasts, to increase funding for housing initiatives on the island.

Board member Chris raised concerns about the feasibility of this change, noting that the state might view it as imposing a tax on hotels, which could complicate the process. However, he emphasized the importance of exploring this option, suggesting that even a slight increase in the tax rate could significantly boost funding for housing projects.

The discussion highlighted the need for a focused approach, with some members advocating for prioritizing the exploration of community land trusts before pursuing changes to the rental tax. The board acknowledged that any legislative amendments would require careful consideration and possibly the assistance of lobbyists to gauge the state's response.

In addition to the rental tax, members also discussed the potential for implementing impact fees on building permits as a means to generate additional revenue for housing. This idea was met with interest, as it could provide a new funding source without placing an undue burden on residents.

The meeting underscored the board's commitment to addressing the housing challenges faced by the Block Island community. As discussions continue, the board aims to balance the need for increased funding with the concerns of local businesses and residents. The next steps will involve further exploration of these proposals and their implications for the community's housing landscape.