OLYMPIA – The Thurston County Board of Commissioners postponed the 2021 application process for those seeking Lodging Tax (LTAC) funding for projects occurring in incorporated Thurston County due to the uncertainty around the COVID-19 pandemic. The Commissioners are hopeful to resume the process in the Spring of 2021, or when the threat of the pandemic subsides and events promoting tourism that draw large gatherings are considered safe.
LTAC funds may be used to promote tourism events, locations, and activities for the purpose of attracting visitors to this area. LTAC revenue may also be used to pay for capital and/or operating costs for some tourism-related facilities, the operation of visitor/convention agencies, and the operation and marketing of special events and festivals designed to attract tourists.
A majority of events awarded LTAC funds in 2020 were canceled due to the pandemic. The fund balance of approximately $45,000 will be retained and added to the balance available for 2021 projects.
LTAC is an excise (sales) tax authorized by Chapter 67.28 RCW Public Stadium, Convention, Arts and Tourism Facilities. It is a fee for people who stay overnight in a lodging establishment such as a hotel, motel, bed and breakfast facility, or campground.
The county will provide updated information to the community as decisions are made around the 2021 LTAC process.
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