Lodging Tax Annual Grant Program

The Lodging Tax Annual Grant Program is administered by the San Juan County Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC), a local governmental body responsible for advising on the use of lodging tax revenues. These funds are generated through taxes imposed on short-term lodging stays and are held in a designated lodging tax fund managed by the County Treasurer. The fund is explicitly intended to support tourism-related activities, including promotion, development, and operation of tourism facilities, as well as initiatives designed to attract visitors and enhance the visitor experience within San Juan County. The primary purpose of the program is to invest in projects and activities that align with the county’s strategic tourism goals. These include supporting a resilient local economy, enhancing visitor experiences, sustaining community well-being, and protecting natural resources. Funding is directed toward initiatives that increase visitation during shoulder seasons, strengthen local businesses and workforce opportunities, improve access to public lands and transportation, and promote sustainable tourism practices. Projects that preserve local culture, support local producers, and balance visitor demand with community capacity are also emphasized. Eligible uses of funding include tourism promotion, event support, facility improvements, and programs that demonstrably attract visitors to the area. Funds must be used in accordance with county ordinances governing the lodging tax fund, which restrict expenditures to tourism-related purposes. Payments are issued through a voucher system approved by the County Auditor, ensuring accountability and alignment with budgeted uses. Applicants are also required to submit a Visitor Attendance Report upon completion of funded activities, documenting the impact of their project. The application process begins with the public release of grant criteria and the opening of the application period. For the 2026 cycle, applications open on June 1, 2026. An optional applicant workshop is offered on June 16, 2026, providing guidance on the application process and an opportunity to ask questions. Applications must be submitted by September 11, 2026, by 5:00 PM, after which submissions are no longer accepted. The process does not require a formal pre-application such as a letter of intent. Following submission, applications undergo a preliminary review by committee members and staff, who evaluate and score proposals based on alignment with program goals and anticipated impact. In October, selected applicants present their proposals to the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee. Successful applications are then forwarded to the County Council for final approval, which is scheduled for November 10, 2026. Award decisions are finalized in November, and approved applicants are notified shortly thereafter. Award documentation is prepared, and funds are disbursed according to county procedures. The program operates on an annual cycle, with similar timelines expected in future years. Applicants are encouraged to maintain communication with the LTAC Coordinator for guidance and to ensure compliance with reporting and documentation requirements throughout the grant lifecycle.

Align proposal with strategic goals including tourism impact, sustainability, and community benefit; demonstrate measurable visitor outcomes and economic impact