Lodging Tax Grant Program

The Lodging Tax Grant Program administered by the City of White Salmon supports projects that drive tourism by investing in events, facilities, and activities that increase overnight and day-visitors, thereby enhancing tourism-related revenues within the city. This program operates under the authority of RCW 67.28.180, which permits municipalities to levy up to a 4% lodging tax on accommodations such as hotels, motels, short-term rentals, and campgrounds for stays under 30 days. White Salmon currently collects the first 2% portion of this tax to fund its tourism initiatives. Eligible applicants for this grant include municipalities, destination marketing organizations, and nonprofit entities such as chambers of commerce, lodging associations, and main street organizations. Each applicant must use a separate form for each proposed project, and while matching funds are not mandatory, they are encouraged as an indication of local support and organizational commitment. The grant requires projects to be located within the city limits, and awards begin at a minimum of $2,500. In 2023, the total available funding for the program was $78,000. The grant may fund a range of tourism-related activities, including marketing and operations of festivals or special events designed to attract tourists, as well as capital expenditures and operations for tourism facilities. However, certain expenses are ineligible, including salaries, benefits, insurance, and travel for event staff. For established events (those operating more than three years), proposals must focus on measurable expansions or enhancements. All advertising resulting from funded projects must acknowledge sponsorship by the City of White Salmon. Applications open in late August and are due by September 30. The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee conducts a review and invites applicants to deliver a five-minute presentation of their proposals in October. Based on these presentations, the committee makes recommendations to the City Council, which approves the grants in mid-November. Funding becomes available beginning in February of the following year, and must be expended within that calendar year. Organizations receiving funds (except the City itself) must sign a reimbursement-based contract and carry liability insurance naming the city as an additional insured party. Grant recipients are required to submit detailed reports on the outcomes of their funded activities. For events, this report is due within 90 days of completion; for other projects, the report is due by January 31 of the following year. Reports must include attendance data, including the number of overnight visitors, day visitors from more than 50 miles away, and out-of-state attendees, along with a description of how those figures were determined. This ensures compliance with state reporting requirements and informs future funding decisions.

Demonstrate potential to increase overnight stays or attract day-visitors from outside Klickitat County. Include expansion plans for events running more than 3 years. Show community support through matching funds or partnerships.