WHEREAS, pursuant to Chapter 351, Texas Tax Code, the City of Balch Springs collects Hotel Occupancy Tax (“HOT”) funds, the purposes of use of which is established by state law; and
WHEREAS, it is the City Council's desire to comply with The Balch Springs Code of Ordinances regarding membership eligibility to City Boards and Commission, as the same relates to the Tourism Advisory Board; and
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the City Council of the City of Balch Springs to declare and adopt a policy for the use of such funds that is consistent with state law and which informs the public of the availability, purpose, and manner of utilizing such funds for worthy, eligible purposes;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BALCH SPRINGS, THAT:
Section 1. The foregoing recitals are adopted and incorporated herein for all purposes.
Section 2. this resolution replaces Resolution 722-13
Section 3. Purpose: The purpose of the City of Balch Springs Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) Program is to directly enhance and promote tourism and the convention and hotel industry by allocating one hundred percent (100%) of the Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) to those purposes allowed by state law, which shall include funds to be distributed via grants for eligible projects and organizations as part of the annual budget process. As such, all programs, activities and events that receive HOT funds must be designed to attract outside visitors to Balch Springs. The event, project, or facility for which such funds are to be used must be likely to cause increased hotel or convention activity in the City. This activity may result from hotel or convention guests that are already in town for another purpose who choose to attend the funded activity or facility or may result from individuals that come from another city or county to stay in an area lodging property, or at least in part, in order to attend the funded event or facility. These guidelines apply to outside persons and organizations and are designed to allow for funding of more events in the city, thereby increasing advertising and enhancing the economy of Balch Springs.
Section 4. City Policy. The City of Balch Springs will accept applications from Balch Springs organizations, groups, and businesses whose program(s) fall into one of the categories for tourism and other activities set forth by the state law. All requests for funds should be submitted in accordance to the provisions in the application for HOT funds (Exhibit A). The application will be reviewed by the Tourism Advisory Committee on an as needed basis.