The Goose Creek Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee held its inaugural meeting on March 30, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Municipal Court. The meeting included elections, staff presentations on the state accommodations tax statute, the application and review process, and a financial overview. Members discussed the committee's goals, potential tourism events, and a tentative meeting schedule. Election of Chair - David was unanimously elected as chair of the committee. The motion was made and seconded, with all members in favor. Overview of State Accommodations Tax Statute (Staff Presentation – No Action) - Staff presented the state code governing accommodations tax funds. Key points: first $45,000 or 5% of collections goes to tourism promotion; 30% to additional tourism promotion; 65% plus to tourism-related capital projects or expenditures. The committee discussed how to track tourism impact in Goose Creek, noting challenges due to the city's size. - Committee members expressed interest in attracting events like concerts, festivals, and partnerships with venues such as the North Charleston Coliseum. There was discussion about the lack of a chamber of commerce or destination marketing organization in Goose Creek, and the need to promote the city as a destination. Overview of ATAX Application and Review Process (Staff Presentation – No Action) - Staff explained the application process for organizations seeking accommodations tax grants. Applicants must be nonprofits or similar entities, pay a $50 fee, and submit detailed plans including fundraising, tax status, and budget. The committee will review applications and make recommendations to city council. - Members discussed how to publicize the application: using the city's social media, newsletter, and direct outreach to potential event organizers. They emphasized targeting events that draw tourists from outside the city. Financial Overview of Accommodations Tax Fund (Staff Presentation – No Action) - Staff presented the current fund balance: approximately $65,025.25 plus interest, with $37,000 in a checking account and additional savings. Revenue from city events (Spring Festival: $16,937; Fall Festival: $15,000) was noted. A placeholder budget of $3,000 for committee operations was mentioned, to be adjusted as applications come in. - Committee members asked about using funds for capital projects (e.g., trolleys for shuttles) and were told such purchases could be eligible if tied to tourism events. The importance of maintaining a reserve per state requirements was highlighted. Discussion of Tentative Meeting Schedule - The committee agreed to meet on an as-needed basis, with a workshop scheduled for May 18, 2026, at 6:30 PM to review applications and discuss event ideas. Members expressed interest in meeting sooner if needed, but settled on May 18 as a target to allow time for applications and research. Key Outcomes - David was elected chair of the committee. - The committee will meet next on May 18, 2026, for a workshop. - Staff will research the use of funds for fireworks and other promotional items, as well as the possibility of funding events tied to the U.S. Semiquincentennial (250th anniversary) celebration. - Members will reach out to potential event organizers (e.g., theater groups, concert promoters) to encourage applications. The application period will remain open with a target to review applications by late July. - The committee will use a scoring rubric for applications, to be developed before the next meeting.
