Thursday, Jan. 14 update: The notification from Airbnb was not a mass email and was perhaps even sent in a few isolated cases. Airbnb is aware of the error and is instructing their property managers accordingly.
Wednesday, Jan. 13: It's come to our attention that Airbnb has sent out a letter to its clients in Galveston that contains inaccurate information. The letter is apparently intended to notify short-term rental property owners that they have signed a contract with the City to collect local Hotel Occupancy Taxes. This letter is inaccurate.
The City does not have an agreement with the company to collect local hotel occupancy tax nor is it negotiating with Airbnb to do so. The issue is one that is under consideration and will go before City Council for discussion in a workshop meeting later this month.
