Ocean Shores LTAC approves convention-center reserve and funds multiple events, denies several large requests

The City of Ocean Shores Lodging Tax Advisory Committee on Nov. 3 voted to set aside a 10% LTAC reserve for the Ocean Shores Convention Center and approved funding for a slate of community events and marketing projects while denying several other requests.

Committee members approved a motion to hold back 10% of LTAC receipts for a convention-center reserve (a figure cited during discussion as $663,500). The committee then approved a $635,000 award to the Ocean Shores Convention Center; George Lee Garrett recused himself from that vote.

Why it matters: LTAC funds are restricted to tourism promotion and capital improvements that directly support tourism. Committee members said a minimum dedicated reserve for convention-center capital needs would reduce the frequency of small, ad hoc requests to the City Council and give convention-center management a ready source for emergency repairs.

What was approved

- Ocean Shores Convention Center: $635,000 approved. George Lee Garrett recused himself from the vote (recusal noted in meeting transcript). Staff confirmed the convention center has submitted required JLARC reports for awards exceeding $200,000 and that those reports have been filed on time.

- Beachcombers / Glass Float Expo: $8,500 approved. Committee discussion emphasized marketing to out-of-town visitors (not just locals) and increased hotel/hotel-partner promotion.

- Coastal Interpretive Center: $45,812 approved (committee members described removing…