Get the fACTS
Here’s why voting NO matters.
Ballot Measure 1 would sharply cut cruise tourism by setting hard caps on daily and yearly visitor numbers. If it passes, this measure could have severe consequences for Sitka’s economy, local businesses and community services.
The revenue generated from these activities directly contributes to our local tax base, helping to fund essential community services, schools and infrastructure improvements.
900+
Tourism sector jobs make up 15% of Sitka’s workforce, according to Rain Coast Data.
$42 mILLION
Annual earnings in 2023 from the visitor industry, according to Rain Coast Data.
200+ BUSINESSES
In 2023, the City and Borough of Sitka issued over 200 business licenses in 2023, largely attributed to cruise tourism.
Share the Facts
Check out our downloadable fact sheets to share the facts, so you can share the facts on social media or wherever you go.
Over $600,000 of the sales tax from cruise tourism is dedicated to school infrastructure funding through the 1% seasonal sales tax.
Keeping visitor numbers steady helps maintain funding for education, infrastructure, and the services Sitkans use every day — like Blatchley Pool, public parks and road maintenance.
Supporting Our Schools and Services
Tourism Builds Lives in Sitka
In a community where traditional employment options, like commercial fishing, pose significant barriers to entry and other professions are limited, cruise tourism presents a reliable and inclusive option for locals who want to build their lives here.
Visitors are a platform for entrepreneurs to start new businesses and young professionals to thrive in the industry. From nature tours to cafes, food trucks to retail, tourism helps locals build lasting livelihoods.
Gary and Koali, Cpt. Gary’s Sitka Adventures
Before the increase in cruise tourism in Sitka, the City and Borough Assembly, along with the School District, faced tough choices each spring during the budget cycle. These decisions involved cuts to community services, increased taxes and layoffs.
Supporting City Services
Click the links below to find out what happened with sales tax revenues fell short.
Sitka Sentinel, 1/23/17
Sitka Sentinel, 3/2/17
Sitka Sentinel, 4/6/18
Sitka Sentinel, 4/25/18
Sitka Sentinel, 2/1/19
Sitka Sentinel, 3/15/19
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