Jefferson County tourism board approves $447,800 in grants for local events and projects

The Jefferson County Board of Tourism on March 23 approved $447,800 in grant awards to support local festivals, arts groups and hospitality projects, the Board's chair said.

"We've spent $447,800. That's how much we'll give this time around," the Chair said as the Board read a list of recipients and award amounts.

Board members said the Board prioritizes initiatives that generate overnight stays because tourism revenues are funded by lodging taxes. That focus shaped this cycle's awards and the Board's follow-up expectations for recipients.

Major awards announced included Unbroken Circle Music Festival ($50,000), the City of Madison Amphitheater ($100,000), Madison Hospitality Economic Development Project ($100,000), Madison Area Arts Alliance ($65,000) and several smaller event and organizational grants such as River Valley Resources ($10,000) and Kindred Folk Society ($10,000). The Chair encouraged groups that received awards to contact the Board about how they will use funds and to return in the fall if additional planning is needed.

The Board said it will not disburse funds directly; recipients must submit an invoice to Dave Bramer for initial review and the county's finance officer, Heather Huff, will handle payment. "You have an invoice and you email it to Dave Bramer," the Chair instructed, noting applicants should follow up if they do not receive an acknowledgement.

One notable request, from the Friends of the Ohio Theater, was deferred. Board members said they want a clearer plan before allocating money. "We just want to have a conversation with them on what exactly they are looking for," the Chair said.

Board members also urged applicants seeking large sums to schedule a pre-application meeting so the Board can evaluate the request. One member recommended advance meetings for any request over $40,000 to allow deeper review of why a high-dollar figure is needed.

The Board moved to accept the minutes as presented and later accepted the treasurer's report and two claims submitted by Visit Madison for marketing and guide-production expenses. Dr. David Bra delivered the treasurer's report and noted lodging-tax receipts have been higher in recent months. The Board approved the motions by voice vote.

The Board confirmed that the next regular meeting is April 20 and reminded recipients to submit invoices to Dave Bramer so payments can be processed by Heather Huff.

Actions recorded: the Board approved the minutes and approved the treasurer's report and two claims; both motions were carried by voice vote with no roll-call tallies provided in the transcript.