PLATTSBURGH -- Clinton County legislators put the final touches on a bed tax at Wednesday night's meeting.

Legislators approved the 3-percent tax on area hotel and motel rooms, which will go into effect Oct. 1.

"This is a valuable tax because it allows our visitors to pay for tourism, and it reduces the burden on our property taxpayers," Robert Butler (R-Area 6, Saranac) said.

The tax, which was recommended by a local committee of government officials and businesspeople, is expected to generate about $300,000 annually.

The money will be used to promote and market popular fishing tournaments on Lake Champlain and other tourist attractions.

The measure was approved in both the State Assembly and Senate earlier this year. Gov. David Paterson signed it last month.

At a public hearing on the matter prior to Wednesday night's meeting Garry Douglas, president of the Plattsburgh-North Country Chamber of Commerce, said the tax will give the county a valuable tool to market the area.

"We consider this the most historic step forward for marketing this area," Douglas said.

Legislator Sam Trombley (R-Area 2, Ellenburg) was not convinced that implementing a bed tax was such a good idea.

He noted the sluggish economy and the fact that the county increased the sales tax just last year.

"The timing is not right to add a 3-percent tax. We are in a recession," Trombley said.

"Clinton County is becoming an expensive place to visit."

Sara Rowden (D-Area 4, Town of Plattsburgh) who served on the committee, said Clinton County was one of just four counties in the state that did not have an occupancy tax.

"And 3 percent is below the state average so we are certainly not being greedy," she said.

County Administrator Michael Zurlo noted that the tax will not apply to those who are placed in area hotels and motels by the Department of Social Services for emergency needs.