Cda May Get Right To Seek Resort Tax

Coeur d’Alene could join McCall, Lava Hot Springs and Ketchum-Sun Valley as “resort cities,” authorized to ask voter approval for special taxes to cope with the impact of tourism and recreation activities.

State law says that only cities under 10,000 population may ask voters to impose local taxes.

A bill approved for introduction Monday by the House tax committee removes the 10,000 limit. Sponsors said it was designed to open the option to Coeur d’Alene.

The law is designed to allow communities with large seasonal tourist or recreation activity to raise money to provide the services involved.

The communities must derive “a major portion of their economic well-being” from tourism or recreation-related activities.

At least 60 percent of the voters must approve before the special taxes can be imposed.