Sarasota County draws record tourism numbers

Visit Sarasota County has reported a record-breaking year in local tourism, as bed tax numbers grew to $19.9 million — a 4.7% increase over Fiscal 2015.

“We are excited to share this news,” said said Visit Sarasota County President Virginia haley in a news release. “Overall tax collections in Sarasota County were record-breaking indicating visitor spending in the destination was strong and the tourism industry will continue to work together to continue this momentum.”

Tourism officials will discuss the numbers during today’s Tourist Development Council meeting at 4 p.m., at the Administration Building, located at 1660 Ringling Blvd.