While I support continuing to use the BID tax on promoting Sioux Falls and NOT on brick and mortar projects, I found this tidbit of information interesting;
2015 CVB-BID EXPENSES
Administrative – $766,855, Sales Development – $669,943, Tourism promotion – $263,402
Instead reviewing the program to see how the mayor can pilfer money from it, maybe they need an independent audit instead. I find the administrative costs to be very high compared to what is actually spent on promotion. Maybe that is the real reason they want to look at it? But if that is the case, like I said, I would prefer an accountant breaking those expenses down and not a hand-picked, rubber stamp group the mayor picks.
This bid did 2 things. One it gave the mayor $500k to spend (not giving it to the Chamber ). Second the Chamber has $2 million to spend on staff / activities to “promote” the business community. I wonder what the average wage is in the tourism industry in SF?
Originally the tax was to raise $1 million. The tax rate should be cut in half so it would raise that amount. Let’s stop sticking it to travelers.
Heard Knobe say he is on the committee now. He said that he thinks of the group more as an audit committee than repurposing the tax funds.
Ok, I can’t comment here. Sado masochism, I’m starting to like it. It’s going to take a witchy woman with bustier & boots to keep my attention.
Seriously, this outside bid thing is unconstitiutional. I’m disappointed city leaders accept it.
Let’s talk about Trump dissing McCain. Amazing how respected rich men finally reveal how lucky they were and how stupid they are.
I’ll say it. Never mix religion and politics. Business and politics, same same. All the presidents on Mt. Rushmore were rich but lost their wealth giving back with public service. You can’t take it with you and did you make an impression. Did it set an ongoing benefitial pace.
Recently it seems like the city/administration is looking for revenue streams wherever it can find them – bus fares, paratransit fares, swimming passes/fees, etc etc. Looking for the ability to add a 3rd penny of sales tax…now looking to raid the BID tax. I’m sure I’m forgetting some. If we have record revenues and are doing so well, why are we grasping for revenues from anywhere recently? Are we in as good of shape long term as we’re being told? I have to wonder. It seems curious.
Agree with you Greg. There’s not been formal reporting from finance. It sure seems like a heist. So much so they’re trying to put some back.
More revenue? Just wait — they’re getting ready to announce some big dollar, big deal development/building/facility/special interest plan for taxpayers to fund directly or indirectly. That’s what I think.