Put-in-Bay Voters Approve 0.5% Resort Tax Increase
Voters in both the Village of Put-in-Bay and Put-in-Bay Township approved a proposed increase to the island’s existing resort tax during Tuesday’s primary election, according to unofficial results from the Ottawa County Board of Elections.
The vote does not create a new tax. Instead, it increases the current resort tax rate from 1.5% to 2%, raising the rate by 0.5%.
Final unofficial totals showed:
- Village of Put-in-Bay: 38 YES (67.86%) / 18 NO (32.14%)
- Put-in-Bay Township: 97 YES (52.43%) / 88 NO (47.57%)
The resort tax is already applied to many purchases made on the island, including food, drinks, retail items and certain services.
Supporters of the increase previously stated the additional revenue would primarily help fund police, EMS and fire services tied to seasonal tourism demand. During informational meetings leading up to the election, speakers emphasized that Put-in-Bay’s public safety services face increased strain during peak tourism season when the island’s population rises significantly.
Officials also noted that the resort tax had not been increased in more than 20 years.
Because both measures passed, the increase will move forward in both the Village and Township jurisdictions.
Results remain unofficial until certified by the Ottawa County Board of Elections.
