A friendly conversation about tourism and taxes

I hope everyone is staying safe and warm during these winter months. I know some folks are tired of winter, but I’m personally excited for more snow. I understand it can be hard on people, and I never want anyone to suffer—I just happen to love the snow.

This past weekend, I found myself stuck in a hotel room, spending time and having adult conversations with some good friends. During one of those conversations, a buddy of mine suddenly said he doesn’t like the Manchester events we host. I politely asked him why he felt that way.

He explained that he doesn’t think people should have to pay a tax for anything, including events. Now, I fully understand that mentality. Truth be told, I don’t like taxes either. But what I don’t think—or maybe I should say what I know—is that many people still don’t fully understand what tourism is or what it actually does.

If we can attract non-locals—and that part is key—and they spend money at our restaurants, shops, and businesses, that money gets put right back into the community. It’s a win-win circular system.

Now, if we only host local events that don’t draw tourists and still choose to charge a tax, it really doesn’t make sense. In that case, we never see growth. It’s just our local residents paying in, with no outside dollars coming in.

Events and projects like Manchester Music Fest, Manchester Distilling, and the Black Gold Shootout are real tourism draws—things we can actually see a return from. We need more of that. Local events are always great and have their place, but by themselves, they don’t do the tourism tax any real justice.

I’m glad my friend and I were able to have that conversation.

Much love, Manchester!