Councilmembers approved the increase during a special meeting last night. In other words it is not an additional tax. The 1.2 percent increase is an additional tax. Councilwoman Vonda Sheiman explained how other jurisdictions use their funds. Ocean Shores developed a marketing plan.
Long Beach has a committee which presents ideas to the council.
Tori Zehner, general manager of Friday Harbor House, questioned the need for more promotion. A professional agency needs to be involved and needs to draw up a marketing plan. Town Attorney Don Eaton cautioned that may not be an acceptable use. Robinson made a case for setting the increase at 1.2 percent instead of 1.5 percent. The council approved the 1.2 percent figure.