Glynn County commissioners approve hotel-motel tax increase for unincorporated areas

The Glynn County Board of Commissioners voted 6-0 on May 29, 2025, to adopt an amendment to the county code raising the hotel-motel occupancy tax in unincorporated Glynn County from 5% to 7%, effective July 1, 2025.

County staff framed the vote as the final step in a three-part process that began with the county delegation securing state approval. "What you have before you this afternoon is the final step in a 3 step process to increase your...tax from 5 to 7%," said Mr. Mofer, a county staff member, explaining that the state legislature had authorized the increase and the county ordinance change completes the local implementation.

Commissioners asked for clarification that the change applies only to unincorporated Glynn County. "This is just unincorporated Glynn County, not including the city," Mofer said. A motion to adopt the amendment was made and seconded; the board voted by show of hands. Commissioner Sweat was on vacation and absent for the vote. The chairman announced, "That passes 6 0."

The ordinance amendment amends section 24-2-14-21 of the Glynn County Code of Ordinances and becomes effective July 1, 2025. The transcript and staff presentation did not specify expected revenue totals or how the additional revenue will be allocated.

The action completes the county-level step required to collect the higher occupancy tax in unincorporated areas; the county will begin applying the 7% rate on the effective date.