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Accommodations‑tax committee recommends ~$285,000 in disbursements; one applicant excluded
Summary
City staff presented Resolution 2025‑37 adopting accommodations‑tax advisory committee recommendations for FY2024–25 disbursements (the recommended budget is about $285,000). Staff said one applicant, "Gym Rats Incorporated," failed to meet application guidelines and was not recommended; council discussed Peach Jam event funding and vendor responsibilities.
Administrator Jim Cliff presented Resolution 2025‑37, the accommodations‑tax advisory committee’s funding recommendations for the 2024–25 ATAX cycle. Cliff said the recommended 2026 budget totals roughly $285,000 and that the committee followed state statute requirements for application review and recommendation. City clerk Jamie Paul and staff member JD McCauley were available to discuss the committee’s process.
Council members reviewed notable applicants. Staff said one applicant — listed as Gym Rats Incorporated — applied but did not meet the committee’s application requirements (including a business plan) and therefore was not recommended for funding. Council members questioned whether Peach Jam, a recurring event, would still receive support; staff said Nike will operate Peach Jam this year and pay its own expenses rather than the city serving as the event's fiscal agent. Cliff reiterated that the committee makes recommendations and the council retains final approval authority over ATAX disbursements.
Council discussion included whether security costs qualified under ATAX rules; staff said the accommodations tax is intended to attract visitors and events must meet established criteria to be funded. The resolution and detailed packet were provided as hard copy for council review.
