The South Lake Tahoe Tourism Improvement District (SLTTID) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the economic well-being of the commercial area and businesses within the South Lake Tahoe Tourism District boundaries. Located in El Dorado County, California, the SLTTID plays a crucial role in attracting visitors and enhancing the overall tourism experience in this picturesque lakeside destination.
Purpose and Funding
The primary purpose of the SLTTID is to bolster the economic vitality of the commercial area and businesses within the district through strategic tourism promotion, marketing, and other commercial revitalization initiatives. The district is funded through a combination of the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) and the SLT Tourism Improvement District fee.
The TOT is a 10% tax applied to the rent paid by guests, while the SLT Tourism Improvement District fee is $4.00 per night for hotels and motels and $5.50 per night for timeshares and agent-managed vacation home rentals. These fees are collected from guests and remitted to the district by the City of South Lake Tahoe.
Governance and Board Membership
The SLTTID is governed by a board of directors, which includes a chairman, treasurer, vice chairman/secretary, and other board members. These individuals are responsible for overseeing the district’s activities and making decisions on how to allocate the funds generated from the TOT and district fees.
To get involved in the SLTTID as a board member, individuals can nominate themselves for open board seats. The district solicits nominations and provides a nomination form that must be completed and returned according to the included instructions.
Key Statistics and Personnel
The SLTTID has demonstrated its commitment to the South Lake Tahoe region through its financial performance and the expertise of its key personnel. In 2022, the district reported a revenue of $3,082,013 and grants and contributions of $3,001,739.
The SLTTID’s key personnel include:
| Name | Position |
|---|---|
| Jerry Bindel | Chairman |
| Bill Cottrill | Treasurer |
| Rich Bodine | Vice Chairman/Secretary |
| Doug Williams | Board Member |
| Lisa Underwood | Board Member |
Enhancing the Visitor Experience
The SLTTID’s primary focus is to enhance the overall visitor experience in South Lake Tahoe. By leveraging the funds generated through the TOT and district fees, the organization implements a range of initiatives aimed at promoting the destination, attracting more visitors, and ensuring they have a memorable stay.
Some of the key ways the SLTTID enhances the visitor experience include:
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Destination Marketing: The SLTTID invests in comprehensive marketing campaigns that showcase the unique attractions, outdoor activities, and amenities that South Lake Tahoe has to offer. This includes digital advertising, social media outreach, and partnerships with local businesses and tourism organizations.
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Event Sponsorship: The SLTTID provides financial support and sponsorship for various events and festivals throughout the year, such as the annual Lake Tahoe Summer Concert Series, the Tahoe Film Fest, and the Tahoe Brewfest. These events not only attract visitors but also contribute to the vibrant cultural and entertainment offerings in the region.
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Infrastructure Improvements: The SLTTID collaborates with the City of South Lake Tahoe and other stakeholders to identify and fund infrastructure projects that enhance the visitor experience. This may include improvements to public spaces, transportation systems, and visitor-friendly amenities.
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Visitor Information and Assistance: The SLTTID operates visitor information centers and provides resources to help visitors navigate the area, find accommodations, and discover the best activities and attractions. This ensures that visitors have the information they need to make the most of their time in South Lake Tahoe.
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Sustainable Tourism Initiatives: The SLTTID is committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices in the region. This includes supporting eco-friendly initiatives, encouraging responsible tourism, and educating visitors on the importance of preserving the natural beauty and resources of South Lake Tahoe.
Conclusion
The South Lake Tahoe Tourism Improvement District plays a vital role in enhancing the visitor experience and promoting the economic well-being of the region. Through its strategic initiatives, the SLTTID continues to attract visitors, support local businesses, and contribute to the overall vibrancy and appeal of this stunning lakeside destination.
References
- https://www.causeiq.com/organizations/south-lake-tahoe-tourism-district,208388325/
- https://www.cityofslt.us/452/Transient-Occupancy-Tax
- https://www.cityofslt.us/720/Tourist-Core-Area-Plan
- https://southtahoetourism.com
- https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/208388325