Latest news with #TouristDevelopmentTax
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Walton County to break ground on Driftwood Road
WALTON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – The Walton County Board of County Commissioners and the Walton County Beach Operations and Tourism Departments plan to break ground on the Driftwood Road Municipal Parking facility. According to a news release, the construction will begin Monday, June 16, on 76 Driftwood Road in Miramar Beach at 9 a.m. U.S. 231 Road Improvement Project to begin in Bay County Walton County's need for public beach access, rest areas and transit stops led to the project approval from the BCC. The Driftwood Road Municipal Parking facility will include 67 parking spaces with dedicated ADA, LSV and bicycle parking. Four of the parking spots will also include electric vehicle charging stations. Officials say the construction of the 1.119-acre lot will take approximately 11 months. For visitors, the public transit stop will have air-conditioning as well as a restroom facility for convenience. The Tourist Development Tax, a 5% tax collected on short-term rentals in south Walton County, funds this development. For more information and project updates, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Orange County's tourist tax take was good, not great in April
Orange County's tourist tax collections were better in April than a year ago, but not as good as the year before that. The revenue generated by the county's 6% surcharge on overnight hotel stays and other short-term lodging has been a reliable measure of tourist industry health, but Comptroller Phil Diamond, whose office tracks the collections, interpreted the new figures cautiously. 'It's interesting to me that even though we're in the midst of what looks to be a very good year — and we just had a very good month — we didn't beat a number from two years ago when everything was less expensive and hotel rooms cost less,' Diamond said. April 2025 collections were slightly weaker at $33.1 million than those in both April 2023 ($33.6 million) and April 2022 ($34.6 million). Epic Universe: Know before you go Still, revenue from the Tourist Development Tax, or TDT, through the first seven months of fiscal year 2025 has totaled $235.6 million, about $11.3 million ahead of the pace of last fiscal year when TDT raked in a best-ever haul of $359 million. Diamond expressed concern about slowing international travel and global economic uncertainty, but also noted bright spots. 'I really want to see more Epic results,' he said, referring to Universal's heralded new theme park, Epic Universe. 'I will say I'm pleasantly surprised at the visitation level we've had before the new park even opened. That was a surprise to me and probably other people as well.' The immersive park officially opened to big crowds May 22 eager to see attractions built around training dragons, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo video games and Dracula, Frankenstein and other celluloid creeps and monsters from the movies. Tourism figures from May will be revealed in early July. 'I'll miss visiting my American friends': Angered by Trump's threats, Canadians rethink Florida travel Visit Orlando also offered a somewhat mixed outlook for summer travel in an emailed response about the latest numbers. Hotel bookings from May through July are currently pacing 1% behind the same time period last year, but the short-term rental market is showing 'robust growth' with bookings 15% ahead of last year, said Casandra Matej, CEO of the region's tourism marketing agency. She said the average daily room rate was $223.44 in April, driven largely by a surge in leisure travel. The rate was $208.50 in April 2024. shudak@
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Orange County awards $5.5 million from tourist tax to cultural groups
More than $5.5 million will go toward major projects at six cultural organizations, after Orange County commissioners unanimously approved the annual cultural facilities grants. The grants come as a relief to jittery arts groups grappling with increased uncertainty about public funding. This year's state budget, which in 2024 eliminated four major cultural grants programs via a veto from Gov. Ron DeSantis, is still under debate. And the Tourist Development Tax — which funds multiple local arts-grant programs, including those approved this week — is currently under the microscope as politicians discuss changing its purpose. Revenue from the Tourist Development Tax, a 6% levy on hotel and other overnight stays, currently is directed by statute to tourism-marketing efforts, the convention center and sports and cultural uses. Discussion recently has heated up about permitting it to fund other needs, including transportation and affordable housing, while state lawmakers have floated the idea of using the money to offset cuts in property taxes. The debate has arts leaders worried that cultural organizations will be left out in the cold. 'The TDT debate could be a crisis for the arts,' United Arts of Central Florida president Jennifer Evins told the Sentinel last month. 'We are all very nervous about it.' June arts events: Nat Zegree, 'Stomp,' 'Hamlet' and more The six organizations receiving funding for facilities projects this week are the Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando Science Center, Orlando Family Stage, Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Garden, Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts and the Orlando Philharmonic Plaza Foundation. At the county commissioners' meeting, Mayor Jerry Demings underscored the importance of the TDT-funded grants. 'This is truly a community benefit that will pay a return for years to come,' said Demings, pointing out none of the projects would be possible without the funding. Cathryn Mattson, executive director of Orlando Museum of Art, said she 'completely agreed' with the mayor's remarks. In Sanford, an intriguing 'Jesus Christ Superstar' for our times | Review 'There is no way that we could raise millions of dollars so quickly without the county's strong support through TDT funding,' she said. 'Small and medium-sized arts and cultural organizations simply do not have reserves large enough to take on major capital expenditures in a timely way — and, in our case, time is of the essence, given the extent of capital improvements needed to protect the extensive, valuable and irreplaceable art collection that OMA holds in the public trust.' The art museum, in Loch Haven Park, is in the midst of a multimillion-dollar project to replace its leaking roof and aging air-handling system. This latest facilities grant, for $970,000, will help update the technology that runs the air-handling system, linking it with lighting control, security and fire alarms. To receive funding, cultural organizations must show they have raised $1 for every $2 granted by the county. Groups also go through an extensive vetting process, in which a review panel scores them on their project's concept and the organization's management and financial strength. To qualify for funding, organizations must score 80 out of 100 possible points. The county's Arts & Cultural Advisory Council then reviews the panel's recommendations, and the county commissioners have the final say. The five other projects approved for funding are: Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens: $200,000 for renovations and upgrades to the Winter Park facility's roof, air-handling system, windows and doors in preparation for its 65th anniversary. Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts: $1,000,000 toward construction of its new facility in the former Winter Park Library, which will also provide a home to Central Florida Vocal Arts. This funding will specifically be used for a greenroom, jazz garden, signage, lighting and elevator renovations. The venue opens June 22. Orlando Family Stage: $350,000 for energy-efficient LED lighting and signage at its building in Loch Haven Park as it approaches its 100th anniversary. Orlando Philharmonic Plaza Foundation: $1,040,187 for an expansion of The Plaza Live on Bumby Avenue, by adding a Patrons' Room. The money will go toward laying foundations and slabs, moving HVAC equipment and new landscaping in preparation for the addition. Orlando Science Center: $2,000,000 for a renovation of the Loch Haven Park facility's CineDome. The funds will aid in the transition from film to digital movie projection and expand seating in the theater. Follow me at or email me at mpalm@ Find more entertainment news and reviews at or sign up to receive our weekly emailed Entertainment newsletter.
Yahoo
01-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Florida must stop its war on tourism. It could hurt jobs and communities.
The Florida House of Representatives has advanced two bills, HB 1221 and HB 7033, that threaten to dismantle the very foundation of Florida's economic powerhouse: the tourism industry. These bills propose significant changes to the state's highly successful Tourist Development Tax (TDT), redirecting its funds from destination promotion to property tax credits. The result would be a devastating blow to local businesses, jobs and communities that rely on tourism to thrive. Tourism is the lifeblood of Florida's economy. The TDT, paid by visitors and not by Floridians, is reinvested in destination promotion efforts that attract even more visitors. This cycle generates jobs, fuels local businesses and supports critical public services. Eliminating TDT funding for this purpose would severely hinder our ability to compete for visitors, leading to long-term economic pain. Additionally, reallocating these dollars to provide property tax relief to property owners diminishes the importance of tourism marketing and promotion across the state. With millions of residential and commercial properties in Florida, a reduction of property taxes amounts to a negligible benefit for individual property owners. In contrast, every Florida household is currently saved $1,910 in taxes per year since tourism is one of the reasons why the Sunshine State remains state tax-free. Tourism in Florida is powerful. Millions of visitors support the livelihoods of countless people across the state. Visitors generate billions in direct spending and contribute significantly to the local economy. Tourism connects communities and creates places where people want to visit, live, work and invest. Opinion: I'm a Canadian who lives in Florida. Don't let tariffs ruin our relationship. If these changes to TDT become law, Florida will lose not only the revenue generated by tourism but also the jobs, beach renovations and much more funded by it. The long-term economic damage will be felt across the state as the tourism industry, a key pillar of Florida's economy, loses its ability to thrive. This is a statewide issue that's important to every tourism destination in Florida, including Palm Beach County, where more than 9.9 million visitors in 2024 supported the livelihoods of approximately 90,000 people. Milton Segarra is president and CEO of Discover The Palm Beaches. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Florida tourism is vital to our economy. Don't stifle it | Opinion
Yahoo
30-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Orlando Dreamers secure anchor investor Rick Workman in MLB franchise push
The Brief Orlando's bid for a Major League Baseball team now has $2.5 billion in commitments, led by Heartland Dental founder Rick Workman, the organization said. The group aims to acquire a team and build a stadium near International Drive. The MLB and the Tampa Bay Rays have not commented, though Orlando remains positioned amid relocation rumors. ORLANDO, Fla. - The Orlando Dreamers, a group pursuing a Major League Baseball franchise for Orlando, have announced a significant financial commitment totaling $2.5 billion — including $1.5 billion earmarked for acquiring a team and $1 billion for a stadium. On Tuesday, the organization shared more details about the anchor investor. What we know We are now learning more about the financial backers behind efforts to lure Major League Baseball to Orlando. As first reported by the Orlando Sentinel, FOX 35 News has independently confirmed that Rick Workman, founder of Heartland Dental, has been named the group's anchor investor. Workman serves as chair of the Executive Advisor Team at New Harbor Capital, a private equity firm focused on founder-led, growth-stage companies. With more than four decades in the healthcare industry, Workman is considered a leading figure in dental services. A graduate of Southern Illinois University, he also serves on the board of Premier ENT & Allergy and previously held a board seat with PT Solutions. Workman adds heft to the Orlando Dreamers' team of marketers and financial backers. In January, Baseball Hall of Famer, and 12-time MLB All-Star Barry Larkin announced he was joining the organization. "To say that Rick is a massive sports fan would be an understatement. He is extremely knowledgeable about Major League Baseball," The Orlando Dreamers In a February interview with FOX 35's Garrett Wymer, Larkin said the group sees multiple paths forward, whether through an expansion team or moving the Tampa Bay Rays to Orlando if the new stadium situation in St. Petersburg falls through. What we don't know The specific size of Workman's investment remains undisclosed. The Orlando Sentinel also reports that John Morgan, the founder of Morgan & Morgan law firm, has committed "hundreds of millions" contingent on the Dreamers securing a team and a stadium site. FOX 35 has learned of Morgan's interest in the franchise but his full involvement or commitment at this stage has not been confirmed. Other members of the investment group have not been identified, and it's unclear how much political or public support exists for the stadium or the broader MLB bid. The MLB has not responded publicly to the Dreamers, and there is no indication of an active team sale or league expansion at this time. The backstory The Orlando Dreamers effort was spearheaded by Pat Williams, a longtime Central Florida sports executive and founder of the Orlando Magic, before his death last year. The group initially proposed a request for $975 million in Tourist Development Tax funds for the stadium, which the county denied in favor of other priorities. The group has since repositioned its bid with more private capital and is now highlighting high-profile backers to restore momentum and credibility. Dig deeper The preferred location for the stadium is a 35.5-acre parcel of county-owned land next to Aquatica water park on International Drive. The project does not yet have confirmed public funding or explicit support from Orange County's political leadership. In addition to the ballpark, the proposed complex would also include retail shops, restaurants, office space, 1,000 hotel rooms, and parking garages for approximately 6,700 vehicles. The proposed complex, which would be south of the Beachline Expressway (SR 528), would ultimately have a pedestrian bridge and walkway connecting it to a SunRail station, should the commuter rail line be extended to the Orange County Convention Center. What they're saying Orlando has never had a Major League Baseball team, and the Dreamers' campaign represents one of the city's most ambitious attempts to break into the league. "Orlando is prepared to host a major league baseball team from a financial standpoint," said Jim Schnorf, the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrative Officer for the Orlando Dreamers. "All we can do is put ourselves in the best position for either a relocation or an expansion," Barry Larkin told FOX 35 in February. "Those are the things that are going to have to happen in the game of baseball. Because one thing about baseball, and a characteristic that I love about the game of baseball, is the stability and the consistency to be successful." "To say that Rick is a massive sports fan would be an understatement. He is extremely knowledgeable about Major League Baseball. Additionally, he has a huge heart for Orlando and shares our vision of the Dreamers having a positive impact on Orange County," the Dreamers told FOX 35 News. "Having Rick Workman as our anchor investor and Barry Larkin as our MLB Ambassador are two major steps in making the Dreamers a world-class organization." Big picture view The plan to bring Major League Baseball to Orlando comes amid speculation that the league might expand or see an existing team, like the Tampa Bay Rays, relocate. However, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has publicly stated his desire to keep the Rays in the Tampa Bay area. Even if the Tampa Bay Rays remain in the Bay Area, Major League Baseball has its sights set on expansion. The league currently has 30 teams and is aiming to grow to 32, with Commissioner Manfred reportedly hoping to finalize an expansion plan before his expected retirement in 2029. That means two new cities could soon be added to the league — with Orlando, Nashville, Montreal and Mexico City among the names floated. Orlando, notably, is the largest media market in the U.S. without an MLB franchise. The Dreamers continue to add investors and is reportedly scouting office space downtown. A team name will also need to be selected if the effort succeeds. Momentum appears to be building. STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 35 ORLANDO: Download the FOX Local app for breaking news alerts, the latest news headlines Download the FOX 35 Storm Team Weather app for weather alerts & radar Sign up for FOX 35's daily newsletter for the latest morning headlines FOX Local:Stream FOX 35 newscasts, FOX 35 News+, Central Florida Eats on your smart TV The Source This story was written based on information shared by the Orlando Dreamers and New Harbor Capital Management, LLC.
