Exploring Erie's Proposed Lodging Tax and Short-Term Rental Regulations for 2027 Sundance Film Festival
The town of Erie in Colorado is contemplating the implementation of a new lodging tax that would be applicable to hotels and short-term rentals. The town officials are considering putting this tax on the November ballot, coinciding with the Sundance Film Festival's potential arrival in Boulder in 2027. The proposed tax would be funded by visitors and the generated revenue would be utilized for community enhancements. It would be imposed on stays in hotels or short-term rentals lasting less than 30 days, with the taxes being added to the visitor's bill.
Currently, Erie does not have any hotels, although one is in the planning phase, but it will not be ready for the 2027 festival. Despite this, the town is moving forward with plans to collect lodging tax revenue, especially as neighboring cities are getting booked up. Erie is seeking public input on the proposed tax as it progresses towards a potential ballot measure in the upcoming fall. The town is focusing on finalizing short-term rental regulations before the Sundance visitors arrive.
Erie is also working on establishing regulations for short-term rentals, as they are not currently included in the town's code. This aspect of the conversation will be addressed in the fall as well. Real estate agent Bri Ugalde from Ed Prather Real Estate mentioned that short-term rentals could offer homeowners an additional income source and help them retain their properties, especially for those who purchased at a high price. The new regulations in Erie will need to find a balance between the short-term rental market and ensuring housing remains accessible to potential buyers.
If the lodging tax is approved by voters and the short-term rental rules are finalized, the collection could commence on January 1, 2027, coinciding with the arrival of Sundance visitors in Boulder County. While Erie may have missed the opportunity for the first Sundance iteration, the town aims to have everything in place for future events. The goal is to have the tax and regulations ready in time for Sundance to take place in the area.
In conclusion, Erie is considering a new lodging tax that would apply to hotels and short-term rentals, with the revenue being directed towards community improvements. The town is seeking public feedback on the proposed tax and is working on establishing regulations for short-term rentals before the potential arrival of the Sundance Film Festival in 2027. If approved, the tax collection could start in January 2027, aligning with the festival's schedule.