PRT commission reviews 13 tourism grant applications totaling $93,042; approves $5,000 disc-golf sponsorship

The Oconee County Parks, Recreation & Tourism (PRT) Commission reviewed 13 grant applications on Feb. 20, 2025, for programs and events funded by the state and local accommodations-tax revenues, and approved a separate $5,000 sponsorship to support five disc-golf tournaments scheduled through June.

PRT staff told commissioners the group received $93,042 in total requests and that $91,749 of that amount met eligibility criteria under the county’s accommodations-tax rules. “I am recommending that we can recommend up to $70,000 a cycle,” the staff presenter said, describing how the commission has divided funding in prior years and noting past disbursements dating to 2010.

The grants reviewed included event advertising, facility improvements and program support across the county. Applicants presented materials or were described to the commission as follows: the City of Seneca’s Independence Day advertising request; Discover Upcountry South Carolina’s regional marketing partnership; Eagle’s Nest Arts Center’s season advertising and venue upgrades; Lake and Mountain Quilters Guild’s show promotion; Oconee Military Museum…