County tourism invites lodging providers to seminar May 19

File photo by Tom Rivers – Dollinger’s Motel in Albion is decorated with lights in this photo from December 2013. Dollinger’s is among the lodging businesses in Orleans County that collect a 4 percent tax, in addition to the sales tax, from their customers.

ALBION – Lodging providers in Orleans County are invited to a May 19 seminar by county officials to discuss marketing strategies, network with other businesses, and learn about bed tax compliancy.

The county has about 25 lodging providers, which include motels, bed and breakfasts, lodges and vacation rentals.

The 4 percent occupancy tax generates about $35,000 for the county to promote tourism, dollars that are matched by the state in the I Love NY program.

The May 19 seminar will be from 6 to 8 p.m. at the home of Gene Haines, 14361 Ontario St. That home, the former Barbary Coast, is next to the Oak Orchard Lighthouse at Point Breeze.

Lynne Menz, Orleans County tourism director, will lead the seminar, which will include County Attorney David Schubel and representatives from the Orleans County Legislature and Chamber of Commerce.

“This is not an enforcement tool,” Menz said about bed tax compliance. “It’s a learning tool.”

Menz is planning other seminars this year for tourism stakeholders, including travel businesses, event planners and museums.

Reservations for the May 19 event are required by May 17. To RSVP, email lynne@orleanscountytourism or call Menz at 585-261-3890.

Participants are welcome to bring brochures to exchange with other lodging providers.