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Vol. 16, Issue 19
DR. ADRIENNE SYMONS
Independently Owned and Sun Parlour Inc. Operated Brokerage
Check out our NEW tourism site
SOUTH ESSEX COMMUNITY COUNCIL
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Wednesday, June 4, 2025
Accommodation tax being considered
By Mark Ribble Kingsville and Leamington councils have voted to request a report from their respective administrations to explore a Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT). A report brought to the most recent council meetings by Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) outlined the need for a MAT to be implemented for all accommodations in the region. The MAT does not affect restaurants or other hospitality-related businesses. Other regions, such as Niagara Falls, have been collecting MATs for years and the program generates additional revenue for the municipalities that would help lessen the tax burden to residents. A 4-6 per cent MAT has been recommended by TWEPI and could generate millions of dollars annually for Windsor-Essex. TWEPI representatives Gordon Orr and Jason Toner presented at both Kingsville (April 28) and Leamington (May 27) council meetings in the last month to explain the tax. According to their figures, Kingsville had 228 accommodation listings in 2024 — this includes hotels/motels and short-term rentals such as Airbnb. Those accommodations would have generated approximately $7.3 million. A four per cent MAT would have generated $292,000, while a six percent MAT would have garnered $440,000. The same time frame in Leamington included 377 accommodations that would have produced about $15.3 million, with a four per cent MAT of $610,000 and a six per cent MAT of $916,000. TWEPI is proposing a 50/50 share in that revenue between them and the municipalities. Windsor has had a MAT program in place and is willing to administer the collection and enforcement of the MAT for a 2-3 per cent fee, but municipalities are free to explore doing it within their administration. The MAT plan was enacted by the provincial government in 2017, a move which granted municipalities the authority to implement the tax, but it would require a by-law. Both municipalities have been given until August 31 to make their intentions known to TWEPI and both voted to request administration submit a report by that time.
SLIDING INTO HOME
Easton O’Neil’s slide into home was to no avail as he was called out on this play in the final game of the Lakers Classic tournament against Riverside on Sunday, June 1 in Leamington. The Riverside catcher looks to the umpire for the call. O’Neil’s 9U Lakers fell short, losing 9-8 in the final. More photos and a report are on Page 17. SUN photo by Deanna Bertrand
Forever Seger to rock Seacliff Park on Canada Day The return of the Music Onthe42 Summer Concert Series at the Sunset Amphitheatre in Seacliff Park is kicking off with an exciting Canada Day performance on Tuesday, July 1, headlined by Forever Seger — North America’s premier Bob Seger tribute experience. The concert is being presented
by the Municipality of Leamington in partnership with The Bank Theatre. The free, un-ticketed concert begins at 7:30 p.m. with an opening set by the Jen Knight Trio, a celebrated Canadian singer and recording artist known for her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence.
At 8:30 p.m., Forever Seger will take centre stage, creating a dynamic journey through the timeless music of Bob Seger. With authentic vocals, commanding performances and that unmistakable Seger sound, Forever Seger’s fast-growing reputation as the Bob Seger tribute experience has propelled them onto the
top-ranking concert stages and festivals across North America. Set against the scenic backdrop of Lake Erie, the evening will reach its grand finale with a fireworks display over the water beginning at 10 p.m., the perfect way to cap off a night of music and celebration. SEE CANADA DAY - Page 2
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