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Crook County approves $2,500 tourism grant for Crooked River Roundup
Summary
The Crook County Board of Commissioners authorized a $2,500 payment from transient room tax tourism funds to help cover a rent increase for the Crooked River Roundup after organizers signed a new facility contract.
The Crook County Board of Commissioners approved a $2,500 payment from the county’s transient room tax (TRT) tourism funds to help the Crooked River Roundup cover an unbudgeted rent increase.
The request came from Steve Holiday, president of the Crooked River Roundup, who told commissioners that a contract with the fair board was finalized the night before and that the group’s budget had been built on the previous year’s lower rent. "We agreed upon a contract last night. I've signed it. Gail signed it, and is waiting for signatures from you guys," Holiday said, asking the board for "just a little bit of help" to fill the gap.
Commissioners discussed using TRT tourism funds, noting that those dollars are intended to attract visitors from outside the county. A commissioner moved to allocate $2,500 from the TRT tourism fund; the motion was seconded and approved with the board saying "aye." The county will request documentation showing the event meets the TRT requirement for visitors from more than 51 miles away.
Why it matters: TRT tourism funds are restricted for use on activities that bring visitors from outside the local area; counties must document that events supported with TRT dollars meet state or local rules. The board’s action bridges a shortfall in the Roundup's operating budget so the event can proceed under the newly signed facility contract.
Background and details: Holiday said the rent rose from the prior budgeted number (about $22,000 previously) to $25,050 under the new agreement and asked for help to cover the gap. Commissioners noted the local economic argument for the grant — that the rodeo brings hotel, restaurant and retail business from visitors who travel into the county — and asked that organizers provide proof that the event draws the required out-of-area visitors to comply with TRT rules.
Next steps: County staff will finalize the payment from the TRT tourism allocation and follow up with Holiday to receive any requested documentation showing visitor origin counts or other evidence that the event meets TRT use criteria.
