Why is there an “inside” and “outside” pricing structure?

Travel Salem must operate under the City of Salem’s Charter which states that transient occupancy tax dollars (TOT or lodging tax dollars) collected by the City of Salem can only be used to promote the city of Salem. However, the City of Salem also understands that the assets of the entire region benefit Salem, and conversely that Salem’s assets benefit the region. In order for Travel Salem to serve as a regional DMO, the Association must generate additional revenues to leverage current marketing dollars provided by the City of Salem.

The “inside” pricing is for businesses located within Salem city limits. Businesses located “outside” the Salem city limits pay an additional percentage. For Travel Salem to operate within its contractual obligations with the City of Salem and within the parameters of the law/City Charter, the “outside” fees are a necessity.