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Woodinville council approves $195,000 in lodging‑tax grants recommended by LTAC
Summary
The council unanimously accepted the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee’s recommendation to allocate $195,000 for 2026 tourism marketing and events, preserving a $50,000 reserve. Councilors asked for stronger metrics on tourism impact and return on investment for future rounds.
Woodinville City Council voted Sept. 16 to accept the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee’s (LTAC) unanimous recommendation to allocate $195,000 in 2026 lodging‑tax grants, preserving a $50,000 reserve.
LTAC staff summarized the application window and eligibility criteria under state law (lodging tax funds must support tourism marketing, special events that attract visitors, or tourism‑related facilities). Of 15 applications received, 14 were eligible; the committee recommended funding most applicants at or near requested amounts and declined three proposals that lacked feasibility factors such as firm dates or matched funding.
Deputy Moranov moved to approve the LTAC recommendations; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. Deputy Mayor Randolph (LTAC chair) and other council members asked LTAC and grantees to supply clearer performance metrics in future funding cycles. Council member Evans, the council’s chamber liaison, said she supports more regular check‑ins with grantees and better metrics to show how grant dollars translate into local economic impact.
Staff noted one administrative correction in the packet: Woodinville Wine Country’s application was corrected from $7,000 to $8,000 and that corrected amount is reflected in the committee’s recommended table. LTAC will proceed with contract preparation so awarded funds can be released for 2026 programming.
