Commission authorizes RFQ for tourism marketing; debate centers on local control and use of occupancy tax

The Sullivan County Commission voted Sept. 18 to authorize the county purchasing agent to advertise a request for qualifications (RFQ) for tourism marketing and tourism enhancement services to be financed from the portion of county occupancy tax revenues that the commission directs to the county’s tourism office.

The resolution restates that 50% of county occupancy tax revenue will continue to be directed to Netta (NEDA per transcript language) under earlier resolution 24‑11‑08 and that the remaining 50% may be used via contracts administered by the county’s purchasing office. The purchasing department will follow its standard RFQ review protocols; selected contractors would coordinate with county administration and present reports to the full commission no less than once per quarter, the resolution says.

The item drew extended debate. Supporters said a contracted tourism specialist or firm…