Destin proposes condo rental fees to offset rising public safety costs during peak tourist seasons
Destin, Florida – The City of Destin is moving forward ideas to charge new fees on short-term condo rentals in an attempt to cover growing public safety expenses. City authorities spearheading this project hope to better control the financial load of running safety services during busy travel periods.
With a year-round population of over 15,000, Destin draws an extra 80,000 visitors on busy weekends mostly from its attractiveness as a holiday spot. This flood seriously stresses local law enforcement and lifeguard resources, hence more money is needed to guarantee public safety.
Destin’s residential short-term rentals currently pay a yearly registration fee, which helps to cover the expenses related to the increased need for emergency services. Talks on whether the suggested condo fee structure would be based on square footage or a flat charge are still under progress.
Mayor Bobby Wagner emphasized the necessity of the new fees.
“This is just us moving it forward,” says Mayor Bobby Wagner. “There will be another two bites at the apple as we make this an ordinance, so gather your peoples on either side.”
The comments of the Mayor emphasize the iterative process of policy development, which will present more chances for public participation.
Since residential renters already pay comparable rates, the city expects some opposition to the increased taxes. The exact contributions from both residential and condo rentals are still subjects of debate within the community and city council.
Apart from meeting financial demands, the city’s code enforcement agency has shown difficulties supervising current rental homes. Officials said outsourcing could be required to effectively handle fee collecting, therefore freeing more money for improvements in public safety.
Public hearings are scheduled for not too far off since the city wants to complete and apply the ordinance by next spring. This will provide a new income source from temporary condo rentals especially meant to support public safety initiatives in Destin.
