Investing in Gardiner, Investing in Community

While Gardiner awaits the annual influx of summer visitors and businesses begin administering the resort tax on May 1, a local community member offers insights into how the resort tax impacts Gardiner’s residents, visitors, businesses, and community organizations. JoLynn Sharrow, like many small-town residents, serves many roles contributing to the vibrancy of Gardiner.
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JoLynn shares, “Wearing several hats in our community gives me a unique window into how the resort tax shapes nearly every aspect of life here. As a resident, I experience firsthand the property tax relief that families like mine receive each year—making it just a little easier to afford to call Gardiner home. I also pay the resort tax as a customer when shopping or dining out, knowing that even small, everyday purchases contribute to projects that benefit everyone.

From the standpoint of a business owner, I see the other side of the equation—collecting the resort tax from visitors and remitting it responsibly. The administration percentage that businesses retain helps offset the costs and time involved, and I’m glad to play a part in supporting the community through tourism. Our guests often appreciate learning that the tax directly funds initiatives that make Gardiner safer and more welcoming, rather than simply being a line item on their receipt.

My involvement with Gateway Hose Company and the Water District has given me an inside look at the application and grant process. Resort tax grants have enabled us to maintain updated equipment, ensure safe drinking water, and keep water bills more manageable for families and businesses. The funding has made it possible to offer free emergency medical and fire response through our local volunteer teams—services that are vital in a rural community like ours, where minutes truly matter.

It’s also inspiring to see the broad impact of the resort tax, from infrastructure and safety improvements to supporting local non-profit organizations. Over the years, projects funded by the resort tax have benefited everyone—whether it’s upgraded water lines, fire/EMS equipment or supporting community events that draw us together and strengthen our bonds.

Ultimately, the resort tax isn’t just a funding mechanism; it’s a way for everyone—residents, business owners, and even visitors—to invest in Gardiner’s future. It empowers our town to address challenges, seize new opportunities, and ensure that Gardiner remains a vibrant, safe, and welcoming gateway for generations to come.”

Thank you, JoLynn for sharing your perspective as we begin another resort tax season and thank you to all who contribute to community efforts that make Gardiner an amazing place to live, work, and visit.

📰 GRAD News...in case you missed it!

📇 Business cards with QR codes linking to the GRAD website are now available at the Gardiner Chamber of Commerce. Feel free to stop by for some and share them with your customers that are interested in learning more about what resort tax funds support.

🏛️ Upcoming GRAD Meeting: May 11, 2026

Our next Board meeting is scheduled for:
🗓 Monday, May 11, 2026​
🕖 7:00 p.m.​
📍 Upstairs meeting room, Gardiner Chamber of Commerce

Meetings are advertised in this newsletter in advance and are open to the public—we’d love to see you there!

Can’t attend?
📄 Visit the GRAD website for past meeting notes.​

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