This proposition is an unfair, not well thought out plan to attempt to put money into the general fund while disallowing the increase in tourist-facing promotions which the TOT was originally designed for. It is time for the Board of Supervisors to find appropriate ways to take care of the underpaid staff of Home Support Services without taking money from a source that could be increased to supplement the TOT taxes that now go into the general fund. It is within the Board's purview to set the TOT rate, but with the current economic downturn, any effort to put more taxes on visitors to Mendocino County should be avoided.

I've been an operator of a short term rental management company for over 20 years. We are a small family-owned business. We contribute widely to our community and take joy in connecting our owners and guests with the unique experiences here on the south coast, and often with members of our community. The contributions via TOT from the south coast are disproportionately under-matched by many County services and opportunities for us, leaving some residents and organizations to manage various things at a more grass roots level. I oppose an increase in the TOT for two reasons. First, there's already a cascade of cost increases to visitors, creating thicker barriers to our once-vital flow of tourism. Second, in the event any increase to TOT is passed, I believe that the funds should be allocated to enhancing services in the regions generating that revenue. Providing an increase in County wages or in-home care services is admittedly important, but should not be addressed by use of TOT from visitors. Steady increases in costs are already contributing to a reduction in visitor stays. I urge you and County staff to consider and explore thoroughly whether a likely additional reduction in tourism would be a tolerable outcome of this proposal. Thank you, Cathleen Crosby, Coasting Home, Gualala.