Clay County Increases Event Marketing Grant to $325K to Boost Local Events

The Clay County Tourist Development Council convened on September 3, 2025, to discuss upcoming events and funding allocations aimed at enhancing tourism in the region. The meeting focused on proactive strategies to attract events and the importance of increasing grant amounts to support these initiatives.

The council highlighted the need to be proactive in securing events, emphasizing the potential benefits of using incentives to draw them to Clay County. A key discussion point was the increase in the event marketing grant, which has risen from $250,000 to $325,000 for the fiscal year 2024-2025. This adjustment reflects the council's commitment to expanding event opportunities, especially following a period of leadership changes that had previously limited their capacity to attract events.

The council noted that with a new sports tourism partner and a fully operational complex, they anticipate a significant increase in events. The current budget allows for this increase, with $310,000 remaining for future grants. The town of Orange Park has already been awarded $15,000 for its Fall Fest, marking the beginning of the new budget cycle.

Additionally, the council discussed several upcoming events, including the Moose Haven Chili Cook Off and the BNA Nightmare youth flag football tournament, which are set to receive grants. The meeting underscored the council's strategic shift towards a more robust event calendar, aiming to leverage the region's resources to boost tourism and community engagement.

In conclusion, the meeting set a clear direction for the council's efforts in the coming fiscal year, with a focus on increasing funding for events and enhancing Clay County's appeal as a tourist destination. The proactive approach and increased budget signify a commitment to revitalizing the local tourism landscape.