Stowe business owners tell House committee a 1% local option tax in H 954 will help maintain infrastructure

Rob Blood, founder and chairman of Lark Hotels, told the House Government Operations & Military Affairs committee that he supports H 954 — a bill to amend the charter of the Town of Stowe to allow an additional 1% local option tax. "I believe [the tax] is critical for maintaining the infrastructure in Stowe and balancing the tax burden between residents and visitors," Blood said during his testimony.

The tax proposal is intended to raise local revenue to support roads, public amenities and other infrastructure in Stowe. Blood, who operates several Stowe businesses including Field Guide Lodge, Apres Only, Katy Hill Lodge and AWOL Stowe, said affordability for employees has become a significant challenge and that the tax would help address infrastructure needs without shifting the entire burden to year-round residents.

Danielle Nichols, who identified herself as the owner of three Stowe businesses (a market, a candy shop and a full-service restaurant), also voiced support for the 1% increase. Nichols said the levy would generate funds to "keep our infrastructure premium and beautiful" and argued it would be unlikely to deter visitors. "One percent on, like, a $1,000 weekend in Stowe is $10," Nichols said. "Even a $10,000 vacation ... is a pretty low lift." She added that many other resort towns use similar taxes to support upkeep.

During brief follow-up, the committee chair asked witnesses about residency and local revenue flows. Blood confirmed he has operated businesses in Stowe since 2014 and is a part-time resident who also spends time in Newburyport, Massachusetts. Nichols clarified that when she said some local tax dollars "leave the town" she was referring to taxes that go toward statewide education funds.

No formal motion or vote on H 954 occurred during the hearing. The committee paused the virtual session to await an additional witness expected to join later.