Sumner Announces Lodging Tax Grant Funding Available for 2012

Editor's Note: This is a press release from the City of Sumner

The City of Sumner announces that organizations may submit applications to be considered for receiving Lodging Tax Grants in 2012. The city expects its two hotels to generate enough revenue in 2012 to allocate approximately $50,000 to non-profit or government organizations to generate more tourism to Sumner.  Applications are currently available on the City website at http://www.ci.sumner.wa.us/Visiting/Lodging_Tax.htm and are due by 4 p.m. on November 10, 2011. 

In order to apply for funding, organizations must be a 501(c)3 or 501(c)6 non-profit or government and must use the funds to not only bring tourists to Sumner but also be able to account for how many tourists came as a result of their project. Washington State Law (RCW 67.28) limits the use of lodging tax funds to one of the following uses:

• tourism promotion and/or to market and operate special events and festivals, and/or
• acquisition or management of tourism-related facilities.

The State defines “tourist” as someone who visits from more than 50 miles away and/or stays overnight. 

The Sumner Lodging Tax Advisory Committee is offering an informal information session on October 28 at 2 pm in City Hall.  Any organizations that think they may apply are encouraged to attend and ask questions. The committee will hear presentations from applicants on November 18 and then make funding recommendations to the Sumner City Council for the council’s final approval.