Brighton Economic Development Corporation Endorses 3% Lodging Tax Measure
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10.17.11
MEDIA CONTACTS: Raymond H. Gonzales, President and CEO, Brighton Economic Development Corporation, 303.655.2154, rgonzales@brightonedc.org
Terra Lenihan, Terra Communications, 303-709-4774, terra@terralenihan.com
Brighton, Colorado – The Brighton Economic Development Corporation’s Board of Directors passed a resolution at their third quarter board of directors meeting on September 27 supporting the three percent lodging tax measure. The Board of Directors encourages the citizens and businesses of Brighton to support Referendum A by voting YES on the November 8, 2011 City of Brighton mail ballot.
Referendum A will ask voters to adopt a three percent lodging tax beginning in 2012. Unlike most Front Range cities, the city of Brighton’s tax base does not currently include a lodging tax. Revenue from the tax increase is estimated at $175,000 in fiscal year 2012.
The tax will be used to increase economic development, develop cultural arts, and provide marketing and the promotion of tourism in the city.
If passed, the lodging tax will help provide fundamental economic development for the city, which is experiencing the fastest trade growth in the Denver metro area. The revenue will help the City continue to attract manufacturing firms like Vestas Wind Systems, whose plant in Brighton has already employed hundreds in the city, with more hiring expected.
Business Week was on target when they named Brighton “Colorado’s Biggest Boomtown.” As Brighton continues to attract new businesses, job growth is expected to more than double by 2020.
The lodging tax will help this trend continue, according to Brighton Economic Development Corporation President & CEO Raymond Gonzales.
The fund will also help to develop cultural amenities, and drive tourism and development to the area.
“Don’t be fooled by the word ‘Tax’- Referendum A is NOT a tax directed at the citizens of Brighton; it is a tax that is paid for by the individuals and groups that visit Brighton occupying a hotel room,” said James Vigesaa, Chairman of Brighton Economic Development Corporation.
Brighton Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) is a 501c (6) Colorado non-profit organization serving the Greater Brighton Area. BEDC is the primary agent for economic development services. BEDC offers relocation, retention and expansion assistance and support to businesses. BEDC works to expand and diversify the local tax base by facilitating the creation of quality jobs and the attraction of retail development. BEDC encourages responsible, diverse growth and development that enhances Brighton’s quality of life as a desirable place to live, work, learn and play.
To learn more about Brighton Economic Development Corporation, visit www.brightonedc.org or call 303.655.2155.
###
