Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Economic Development Events topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Shawnee County allocates 2025 transient guest tax funds to Combat Air Museum, Top City Half Marathon and Stormont Vail Event Center
Summary
The commissioners approved distribution of the county's 2025 transient guest tax funds to three applicants: Combat Air Museum (two requests), Top City Half Marathon and Stormont Vail Event Center. Staff reported the available amount and discussed possible process changes for future years.
The Shawnee County Board of County Commissioners approved allocations from the county's 2025 transient guest tax proceeds to requests from the Combat Air Museum, the Top City Half Marathon & 5K and the Stormont Vail Event Center.
Jennifer Sauer, financial administrator, said the county receives transient guest tax (TGT) for the unincorporated area and estimated the funds available for appropriation this year. Sauer first said the available appropriation appeared to be approximately $53,000 based on first-quarter payments. Later in discussion she provided a broader estimate: "Last year we received right under $80,000... This year we're estimating it to be $62,000," and she noted the county's 1% of the TGT continues to support Sunflower Soccer until its bond payments end in 2028.
Applicants described their proposals. The Combat Air Museum requested $7,000 to continue a highway billboard rental and an additional one-time request of $10,000 to add enclosed storage and exhibit space for artifacts at Hangar 602. Top City Half Marathon organizers asked for funds for marketing and promotional materials to grow the event; they said last year nearly 600 runners participated and about 1,000 visitors attended in total. Stormont Vail Event Center requested the balance of funds for marketing and sales efforts to attract conventions and events.
Commissioner Kevin Cook moved to approve the applicants' requests; Commissioner Bill Rippon seconded. The motion passed 3-0. Jennifer Sauer said staff would coordinate with successful applicants on payment details. Sauer and commissioners also discussed improving outreach and application processes for future years so potential applicants know the TGT opportunity earlier.
The record shows the Combat Air Museum requested $7,000 and $10,000 in separate applications; the file does not record specific award amounts in the public transcript beyond commissioners approving the requests and directing staff to coordinate payments.
