Hutto amends hotel occupancy tax funding policy

Hutto City Council tweaked the city's hotel occupancy tax funding policy and created a six-week application period for businesses promoting Hutto to apply for city funds.

The application period runs from June 30 to August 15. Funding will be approved before Sept. 30, according to a news release. Previously, businesses could apply for the funds throughout the year.

Hutto businesses involved in the tourism and convention and hotel industries can apply for a share of the hotel occupancy taxes collected by the city. Businesses that promote the city for events can also apply.

Hutto Assistant City Manager Micah Grau said the amendments to the policy clarify who may receive funds and level the application process. Hutto City Council passed the amendments June 19.

"We really are trying to make it easier so that it is a one-time-a-year process and everyone knows it and it is consistent," Grau said. "That way everyone has a fair shot at the funding as opposed to one group might come and use up all the funding at the beginning of the year ... if we do this one process, it makes the process open and fair for everybody."

Permitted uses for hotel occupancy tax funds, according to a news release:

Convention and Visitor's Bureau

Promotion of the Arts

Historical Restoration and Museums

Sporting Event Promotion

Enhancement of Existing Sports Facilities

Signage