RIGA, Aug 22 (LETA) - The Jurmala City Council's plan to raise the entrance toll for vehicles to five euros will reduce the number of spontaneous visits of guests to the coastal resort city, especially families and one-day holidaymakers, Andris Kalnins (Greens/Farmers), president of the Latvian Hotel and Restaurant Association (LVRA), told LETA.

He pointed out that this idea is a serious concern for the hospitality and tourism sector, as Jurmala businesses are already highly dependent on weather conditions. "This summer has shown this, as unstable weather conditions have had a significant impact on visitor flows and income," Kalnins added.

According to him, this decision of the municipality will have a direct impact on restaurants, hotels and cultural events, including the Dzintari Concert Hall, where a drop in attendance may already be felt next season. "This sends the wrong signal that the interests of business people and visitors to the city are not being properly taken into account," said the association's head.

Kalnins said that Jurmala's municipality should reconsider this idea and look for more balanced solutions, such as seasonal or differentiated fees, which would allow the city to generate the income it needs without alienating visitors or damaging the business environment.

"Otherwise, not only the business community will lose, but also Jurmala itself, whose reputation and attractiveness as a welcoming resort city may suffer," said Kalnins.

As reported, the Jurmala City Council is planning to increase Jurmala entrance toll to EUR 5, according to a bill submitted for public discussion in the city.

According to the legislation, one-day entrance toll would rise from EUR 3 to EUR 5, seven-day (weekly) toll from EUR 10 to EUR 20, 30-day (monthly) toll from EUR 31 to EUR 60, 90-day (three-month) toll from EUR 55 to EUR 100, 180-day (half-year) toll from EUR 107 to EUR 180, and 365-day (annual) toll to EUR 270.

Due to low demand, the city also plans to abolish the 270-day toll, which currently costs EUR 150.

Jurmala entrance toll was last raised on February 1, 2024, and has since been charged year-round, not only during the summer months.

Public consultation on the bill will run until September 4.