The Town of Bracebridge is inviting residents, businesses, and community stakeholders to share their feedback on the proposed creation of a Municipal Services Corporation (MSC) that would support tourism development in the community.
In October 2025, the Town implemented a Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) that is applied to overnight accommodations such as hotels, motels, and short-term rentals, and is paid by visitors at the time of booking. Revenue generated through the MAT helps support tourism promotion, infrastructure, and product development that benefit both visitors and residents without increasing taxes for local households.
Under provincial legislation, municipalities are required to share a minimum of 50 per cent of MAT revenues with an eligible tourism entity, a non-profit organization with a mandate to promote tourism. Since Bracebridge does not currently have such an entity in place, Town Council directed staff in June 2025 to begin the process of establishing a non-profit, non-share capital Municipal Services Corporation, proposed to be named the Bracebridge Tourism Development Corporation.
It is proposed that the Corporation be wholly owned by the Town of Bracebridge, with its Board of Directors appointed by Town Council to ensure transparency, accountability, and alignment with community priorities.
Before moving forward, the Town is seeking public input to help inform decision-making. Community members are encouraged to review the Draft Business Case and complete an online survey to share their perspectives on the proposed MSC and its role in managing and investing MAT revenue. The survey will be available until Friday, January 30.
To learn more, review the Draft Business Case, or complete the survey, visit engagebracebridge.ca/msc.
To learn more about the MAT, visit bracebridge.ca/mat.
Town of Bracebridge seeking feedback on proposed Municipal Services Corporation
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We already have a tourism company representing all of Muskoka stationed in Bracebridge Explorer,s Edge program so why do we need to pay for another office and employee’s doing the same thing. Our area has millions of people coming here every year already whether it’s advertised or not its just a money grab for someone’s pockets