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Ross Ragland Theater withdraws lodging‑tax pitch, seeks partners after financial shortfall
Summary
Ross Ragland Theater leaders told the Klamath County Board of Commissioners they rely roughly 40% on donations and grants, have recurring cash shortfalls, and have withdrawn a proposed 1–2% transient lodging tax increase after opposition from local hotel owners; they said they will pursue donations, partnerships and an arts district alternative.
Leaders of the Ross Ragland Theater told the Klamath County Board of Commissioners on July 28 that the venue’s operating model depends about 40% on donations, grants and philanthropy and has produced recurring financial crises.
Paul Stewart, speaking for the theater, said organizers had explored asking the county to increase the transient lodging tax by “1–2%” to create a more stable revenue stream but decided to withdraw that request after local hotel owners strongly opposed the idea and indicated they would invest to defeat it. The presenters said they will instead pursue donations and partnerships with hotel owners, the nearby military base and other community stakeholders.
Presenters including Francine Marseille and Jay Schindler suggested alternate approaches such as forming an arts and cultural district or a recreation district that could leverage small property tax assessments or partnerships with the museum to support programming. The group also highlighted upcoming performances, naming acts scheduled at the theater.
No formal county action was taken on a tax measure during the meeting; the presenters framed the shift as a strategic retreat to explore collaborative funding and organizational changes. The board received the update during the public presentation portion of the agenda.
