Local
Rancho Palos Verdes asks voters to raise hotel tax as landslide costs mount
Measure RS would raise the tax paid by overnight hotel guests from 10% to 13%, with city officials estimating the change could generate about $2.2 million a year.
Rancho Palos Verdes voters will decide the local tax measure in November as the city continues paying for damage and mitigation work in the Portuguese Bend landslide complex. LAist reported Friday that the city expects its landslide-related spending to reach about $75 million by the end of June 2027.
Ballot measure: Measure RS
Proposed hotel tax: 13%, up from 10%
Estimated annual revenue: About $2.2 million
Properties affected: Terranea Resort and another hotel in the city
Revenue would cover only part of the city’s costs
City Manager Ara Mihranian told LAist that officials compared hotel-tax rates at similar resorts in Los Angeles and Orange counties before proposing the increase. Terranea declined to comment to the outlet.
The city has installed deep dewatering wells, filled fissures and added drainage infrastructure as it works to slow land movement and protect roads and utilities. Officials say the estimated hotel-tax revenue would not cover all landslide expenses, and the city is continuing to seek grants.
Original reporting: LAist — October 16, 2026 →