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Bill would broaden use of Ocoee River rafting fees for local tourism promotion
Summary
HB24-25 would let the Ocoee River Recreation & Economic Development Board use outfitter fees for events and promotions; sponsor said about $2 million is in the fund and the region saw an 11% tourism increase last year.
Chairman Howe described House Bill 24-25 to expand how the Ocoee River Recreation & Economic Development Board may use funds collected from river outfitters. The board, created in 2017, currently holds per‑head fees in escrow with the state treasurer; Howe said HB24-25 would allow the board to use funds for festivals, advertising, kayak competitions and improved coordination with state parks by adding the director of state parks to the board.
Howe told the committee there is currently about $2,000,000 in the fund and that tourism in the area increased about 11% last year; he said private promoters have attracted large weekend events and the board should be able to support similar local activities. The bill was placed behind the budget because of a fiscal impact.
