Whittier charter operator urges $10M reinvestment in tourism marketing to boost Alaska economy
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Summary
A Whittier-based charter operator asked the Senate Finance Committee to reinvest $10 million—proposed from vehicle rental-tax revenue—into tourism marketing, arguing tourism supports jobs and state revenue and helps rural and seasonal economies.
Kelly Bender of Lazy Otter Charters testified to the Senate Finance Committee that reinvesting $10,000,000 in tourism marketing would support long-term business viability and job growth in coastal communities. Bender, who identified her family business and its growth from one vessel to multiple year-round operations, said the tourism sector contributes roughly $5.6 billion in economic activity, supports about 48,000 jobs and has contributed more than $180 million to state revenue.
Bender asked lawmakers to reinvest vehicle rental tax revenue to maximize return on investment, saying targeted marketing helps shoulder-season visitation and enables businesses to hire year-round staff. "Spending money on marketing is 101 for the success of any business," she told the committee.
Why it matters: Committee members will weigh marketing reinvestment alongside other budget priorities; tourism marketing can influence seasonal employment, local tax receipts and small-business viability.
What’s next: No vote occurred; the testimony becomes part of the public record as the Finance Committee considers amendments and revenue allocations for the coming budget cycle.