Amidst the housing crisis, South Lake Tahoe finds itself at a crossroads, exploring solutions with a growing debate surrounding the proposed vacancy tax.

A grassroots movement is gaining traction, advocating for penalties on homeowners who leave their residences vacant for over half the year. To secure a place on the November ballot, the initiative requires 1,159 signatures from registered voters by April 10.

Outlined in the ballot measure, the proposed contributions stand at $3,000 per vacant residential unit for the initial year, escalating to $6,000 for subsequent consecutive calendar years. Non-compliance with occupancy disclosure requirements would result in penalties.

However, critics argue that taxing secondary homeowners unfairly penalizes individuals who have worked tirelessly to acquire their properties. “I support addressing affordable housing, but not this,” remarked Bob Walker during a recent city council meeting. “It unfairly targets secondary homeowners who have invested their lives in these properties.”

As the organization continues to gather signatures, they stress that the final measure will be a product of community collaboration, ensuring that everyone has a chance to contribute to the discussion.