Island County commissioners consider redirecting lodging tax funds

Island County commissioners are considering redirecting $87,000 in lodging tax funds, originally earmarked for capital projects, toward tourism events. The redistribution follows a lack of qualifying applications for capital projects.

The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee previously received over $834,000 in requests for community events but only had $214,500 available, leading to the funding of only 11 out of 24 applications. Commissioners discussed supporting various organizations, including the Whidbey Island Marathon, Sound Water Stewards, Whidbey Island Garden Tour, Whidbey Island Arts Council, and Oak Harbor Main Street. Commissioner Melanie Bacon suggested a $10,000 limit per organization for these additional awards.

The Whidbey Renaissance Faire received no initial funding recommendations. A $300,000 proposal for Mysthaven Village was deemed ineligible for capital funding due to the absence of a required municipal partnership, and a $100,000 request for operating expenses received one of the lowest scores among applicants. Commissioners emphasized that lodging tax funds should prioritize events that attract overnight visitors rather than those primarily serving local residents. The proposal must return to the advisory committee for consideration before a final decision is made.