The Liberal Initiative (IL) has expressed concern regarding the proposal to double the tourist tax in Santa Cruz, from two to four euros per night. The party argues that the measure should be accompanied by an assessment of economic impacts and clarifications on the use of additional revenue.
The liberals believe the discussion on amending the Municipal Ecotax Regulation should not be limited to the new amount. They demand objective justification, transparency in fund usage, and a demonstration of benefits for the municipality and its residents. Nuno Fernandes of the IL stated that "a tourist tax cannot be seen merely as another source of revenue for the municipality," advocating for concrete results from any increase.
The IL acknowledges the planned exemption for residents but deems it necessary to evaluate the measure's effects on accommodation establishments, economic operators, and tourists. The party maintains that municipal tourism policy should balance public service sustainability, urban space quality, and destination competitiveness. Before any decision, it is essential to demonstrate the needs to be financed, alternatives considered, and concrete improvements to be provided, concluded Nuno Fernandes.
