Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transient Lodging Tax topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Deschutes County commissioners discuss proactive regional approach to transient lodging tax reform
Summary
Commissioners and local officials discussed coordinating with Visit Central Oregon and Central Oregon caucus on a legislative strategy for transient lodging tax (TLT) reform, emphasizing a collaborative regional approach rather than reacting to coastal proposals.
Deschutes County commissioners used the Oct. 1 meeting to discuss tracking and shaping possible state legislative proposals to change the transient lodging tax (TLT). Commissioners said they favor a regional, collaborative approach with Visit Central Oregon, destination management organizations (DMOs), the Central Oregon Caucus and local destinations rather than passively reacting to proposals primarily driven by coastal communities.
Commissioners and staff reported recent meetings with Visit Central Oregon and the local Destination Marketing Organization (DMO). Scott (director, Visit Central Oregon) and Doug (unnamed in transcript) were referenced as local stakeholders exploring options for a Central Oregon approach. Commissioners noted that prior bills were driven by coastal priorities and might not suit Central Oregon’s mix of communities.
A commissioner said Visit Central Oregon’s director expects a proposal will reappear in the short 2026 session and mentioned a likely TLT increment figure referenced in local discussions (cited in the meeting as “39 62” and earlier figures); staff and commissioners emphasized the need to convene tourism industry leaders and elected officials to develop an approach that reflects Central Oregon’s priorities. One commissioner noted the board had not designated TLT reform as a legislative priority at its recent priority‑setting meeting but that the board should track and be ready to engage.
Commissioners said they prefer a collaborative, locally‑driven bill carried by regional legislators rather than following coastal models, and they asked staff to continue monitoring the issue and coordinate with regional partners.
