Resort tax issues

I've recently read two articles promoting a resort tax (sales tax) in your paper. They both quoted Mr. Bruce Solberg the director of the Bigfork Chamber of Commerce.

First of all, I'm not quite sure what would motivate him to promote this tax. One would think his primary role as director would keep him busy simply promoting Bigfork and the points of interest in-and-around the area. Most certainly, some of the people who visit will want to move here and perhaps start a business. Businesses would have an additional accounting cost as they collect the tax. Call me crazy, but doesn't the fact we haven't a sales tax be a plus in these peoples consideration for moving? Visitors already pay sales tax on their hotel rooms, rental cars and gasoline. And, wouldn't a sales tax be a deterrent for some visitors and locals to purchase from Bigfork businesses? In addition, anyone who has owned a business knows that taxes are already built into the cost of goods.

Secondly, we pay property taxes for or use other state revenues to repair and improve our streets and roads. Indecently, property tax is slated to increase next year. Do we really need this additional tax? And, who would collect and distribute this tax? The Bigfork Chamber of Commerce? Or would it be some other quasi-government agency?

Lastly, I'm a member of the Bigfork Chamber of Commerce and I know Mr. Solberg. Bruce is a good person, but I'm sure he hasn't thought this thing through. What do you think? Thank you.

Dan Griffin

Ferndale