Collier County Proposes 6¢ Tourist Tax to Fund Sports Complex & Tourism Projects

Collier County is moving forward with a proposal to boost its tourist development tax—sometimes known as the “bed tax”—from 5¢ to 6¢ per dollar on short‑term rentals and hotel stays. The potential 1¢ increase, expected to generate an additional $9–10 million annually, would appear on the November 3, 2026 general-election ballot.

🏟️ Why the Hike?

The main driver? Completing the long-planned Paradise Coast Sports Complex in East Naples. With recent third-phase finishers—including nine synthetic turf fields and a stadium—the fourth phase will add 11 multipurpose fields, restrooms and site amenities, with an eventual fifth phase featuring an indoor fieldhouse. The proposed tax bump would also help fund tourism promotion, beach nourishment, and related projects.

📊 Tax Breakdown & Legal Path

• The county qualifies as a high-impact tourism destination, making it eligible under Florida rules to collect the maximum 6¢ rate.

• The additional penny would kick in January 1, 2027, if voters approve.

🚧 Timeline & Transparency

• July 8, 2025: Commissioners unanimously agreed to advertise the tax ordinance and commission a Tourism Impact Study, as required by state law.

• The Tourist Development Council, backed by the Greater Naples Chamber and Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, will lead an educational campaign appealing to voters—especially emphasizing that only visitors, not local residents, pay the tax.

🌊 Broader Benefits

• The extra funds align with maintenance projects such as beach renourishment, park improvements, and tourism marketing, in line with state guidelines .

• Collier joins a growing list of about 12 Florida counties—including Lee, Palm Beach, Sarasota—already at the 6¢ cap Gulfshore Business.

• A robust tourist-tax revenue stream—$48.6 million collected in FY 2023–24—provides cover for such investments, even amid hurricane risk and economic variability.

🤔 What to Watch

• Voter education: Local businesses will need to clarify that the tax targets overnight guests, not residents.

• Tourism Impact Study: Required to demonstrate that the subsidy truly draws more visitors.

• Project timing: Tax effective Jan 2027—but infrastructure lead time means key phases won’t start until 2028 or later.

• Accountability: Ongoing monitoring will be crucial to ensure funds benefit targeted tourism and sports assets.