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Edmond Life and Leisure - May 23, 2024
Edmond Tourism powering the economy
By Jennifer Thornton Tourism director
Tourism is Oklahoma’s third largest industry and provides significant economic and entertainment benefits to residents and visitors. Visit Edmond is showcasing local hotels, vacation homes, attractions, and sports facilities by celebrating National Travel & Tourism Week May 19-25.
Visitors add an estimated $275 to our local economy for each day they spend the night, dine, shop and play in Edmond. “We welcome visitors to enjoy Edmond for tournaments, conferences, events, and family gatherings. During their stay, they contribute to sales and lodging tax”, said Jennifer Thornton, Edmond Tourism Director, “These tax dollars fund quality of life amenities like parks, roads and facility improvements for residents.” It is a full-circle economic impact. Visiting Edmond is often the first step before moving their family or bringing their business to Edmond.
This year’s National Travel & Tourism theme is “Powering the Economy” which goes hand in hand with the June 18 Lodging Tax Vote. Edmond citizens will vote on a proposition to increase the lodging tax from 4% to 6% on June 18. This would be the first increase in 30 years and funds Visit Edmond to promote the city as a destination and attract, retain and sustain conferences and events for visitors. Lodging Tax is only charged for overnight stays in Edmond's 13 hotels, one bed & breakfast and more than 150 vacation homes.
An increase from 4% to 6% is estimated to generate an additional $500,000 annually for tourism development opportunities. In comparison, the current Edmond tax rate is lower than other metro cities:
o Norman-8%
o Guthrie-7%
o Stillwater-7%
o Oklahoma City-5.5%
For more information about Edmond’s June 18 lodging tax vote, go to https://visitedmondok.com/
