To: Board of Supervisors
From: Supervisor Natalie Arroyo and Supervisor Michelle Bushnell
Agenda Section: Departmental
Vote Requirement: Majority
SUBJECT:
title
Measure J Recommendations For Fiscal Year 2024-25
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RECOMMENDATION(S):
Recommendation
That the Board of Supervisors:
1. Allocate $250,000 from Measure J Revenues (Hotel & Motel Tax - 107010) in the following amounts for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024-25:
a. $150,000 to the Ink People Center for the Arts for projects with an economic driver;
b. $45,000 to the Aviation Department for destination marketing;
c. $30,000 to the Humboldt-Del Norte Film Commission as match funding for the Forest Moon Festival;
d. $25,000 to the Economic Development Division for administrative costs to manage all three of the above projects and contracts; and
2. Approve holding the remaining Measure J funds totaling $750,000 as a budgeted reserve while working to stabilize the General Fund for future tourism considerations; and
3. Consider providing direction for future fiscal years.
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STRATEGIC PLAN:
This action supports the following areas of your Board's Strategic Plan.
Area of Focus: A Diverse, Equitable & Robust Economy
Strategic Plan Category: 2002 - Promote a robust tourism economy
DISCUSSION:
On May 7, your Board considered allocations for the voter-approved Measure J Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) funds beyond FY 2023-24. Measure increased TOT by 2% and applies the tax to private RV parks and campgrounds. Rather than allocate funding at the May 7 meeting, your Board approved a motion to have Supervisor Arroyo and Supervisor Bushnell return at a later date with a recommended spending plan. This item presents a plan that attempts to meet the moment and maintain the commitment stated in the measure approved by voters, balancing the need to maintain essential services and preserve General Fund, while also providing funding for theater/arts and marketing-related services to boost tourism.
As a reminder, your B...
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