About the Project

With Council's direction, the Township of Lake of Bays is considering a 4% Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) to be paid by visitors staying in overnight accommodations. This initiative is being explored based on the success and benefits seen in other municipalities, including neighbouring ones, with similar programs.

The MAT helps boost tourism, improve local infrastructure, support businesses, ease the tax load on residents, and enhances the visitor experience, ultimately benefiting accommodation providers in the area.

What is a Municipal Accommodation Tax?

A MAT is a widely adopted program in municipalities across Ontario and Canada, aimed at supporting and enhancing local tourism industries. It is a fee paid by visitors renting short-term accommodations in Lake of Bays. Here are the key points:

Getting Involved

The Township is committed to keeping the public informed and engaged, with more opportunities for input coming as the MAT program develops.

Application Deadline: April 25, 2025

The Township of Lake of Bays has established the MAT Task Force to help shape the new Municipal Accommodation Tax program. This advisory group includes members of Council, Township staff, tourism organizations, and representatives from local accommodation businesses:

Geoff Carleton, Chief Administrative Officer, Township of Lake of Bays – Chair

Robert Lacroix, Councillor, Township of Lake of Bays – Vice Chair

Michael Peppard, Councillor, Township of Lake of Bays

Laura Vaisanen, Deputy Clerk, Township of Lake of Bays – Secretary

Morgan Lonsdale, Economic Development Coordinator, Township of Lake of Bays

Halley Clover, Executive Director, Huntsville/Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce

Val Hamilton, Executive Director, Muskoka Tourism

Bruce Howell, Owner, Colonial Bay Resort

Patti Dryden, Owner, Tally Ho and Short-Term Rental Operator

Andy MacCulloch, Short-Term Rental Operator

Meeting through the summer, the Task Force will develop recommendations for how the MAT funds are used and the tourism partnerships the program will support.