Sumter County creates Tourist Development Council to pursue countywide tourist tax

The Sumter County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously on May 12 to adopt an ordinance creating a Tourist Development Council (TDC) and directing the council to prepare a plan for a countywide tourist development tax, a step staff said is required before placing the levy before voters.

County staff described the statutory process and the council’s role. Mr. Arnold, speaking for staff, said the ordinance would establish nine TDC seats, set membership criteria and require the TDC to prepare a list of prioritized tourism projects with associated cost estimates and a plan covering anticipated revenue for at least 24 months after any levy is imposed. “Ballpark, you’re looking at, basically about 1,000,000 dollars a year in tourist development tax dollars,” Mr. Arnold said.

The TDC’s recommendations would be submitted to the board before any referendum. The board’s action authorizes formation of the council and directs it to undertake the tasks required under state law so voters will see a plan if the levy reaches the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot.

Commissioners discussed enforcement and collection mechanics. Staff described how the state previously collected and reconciled the tax and said the tax collector has expressed interest in taking on local collection duties if the voters approve, which county staff said would improve local visibility and fairness. Commissioners also raised enforcement concerns about short-term rentals and other nontraditional lodging, and asked staff for details about administration and revenue projections.

Public commenters urged the board not to “leave $1,000,000 on the table.” Carolyn Campbell told the board she wanted assurances the funds would be distributed equitably across the county and not concentrated in The Villages. “It’s $1,000,000 dollars that we’re leaving on the table a year,” Campbell said, urging the board to ensure countywide benefit.

After public comment, Commissioner Butterfield moved to adopt the ordinance; Commissioner Bogue seconded. The board voted unanimously to adopt the ordinance and move forward with establishing the TDC and preparing the plan required for the referendum.

What happens next: With the ordinance adopted, the county will appoint members to the TDC and the council will prepare the prioritized project list and associated 24‑month revenue plan required by statute. If the board ultimately places a levy on the ballot, voters will decide whether to impose the tourist development tax. The board and staff said the TDC’s recommended plan will be provided to the public ahead of any vote.