Lambton Shores Invites Public Input on New Tourism-Focused Municipal Services Corporation

The Municipality of Lambton Shores is seeking public input to help shape the development of a new not-for-profit Municipal Services Corporation, which will serve as the designated tourism entity for the Municipality’s future Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) program.

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to complete an online survey to provide feedback on key elements of the proposed corporation, including its name, strategic priorities, and the structure of its board of directors. The survey is open until Friday, May 16, 2025, and can be accessed on the Municipal website.

Creating a Municipal Services Corporation is the first step toward implementing the MAT program, scheduled to launch in January 2026. While the MAT will eventually provide funding for both municipal infrastructure and tourism initiatives, this phase is focused on establishing a strong, locally governed organization to reinvest tourism dollars back into the community.

“The primary purpose for implementing the MAT in Lambton Shores is to boost tourism efforts in the Municipality, and the first step is identifying the best way to allocate those funds,” said Lambton Shores Mayor Doug Cook. “While half the revenue can help alleviate some of the financial pressures associated with tourism on infrastructure and municipal services, we need to be sure the other half supports tourism efforts in Lambton Shores.”

Under provincial legislation, 50 per cent of MAT revenues must go to a designated eligible tourism entity, which is defined as a not-for-profit organization whose mandate includes promoting tourism in Ontario or in a specific municipality. By forming its own Municipal Services Corporation, Lambton Shores can ensure those funds stay within the community and support local initiatives.

“By creating a Municipal Services Corporation, we can ensure every dollar generated through the Municipal Accommodation Tax is reinvested directly into our community,” added Mayor Cook. “This approach keeps decision-making local and focused on tangible benefits for our local businesses, accommodation providers, and residents.”

More information about the Municipal Accommodation Tax program will be shared once the consultation period closes and the MSC development process is complete.

Learn more on the Municipal page dedicated to the consultation process