By Larry Holt

The Orange Leader

Executive Director at Orange County Economic Development Corporation Jessica Hill, CeCD, presented the court with 2018 Hotel Occupancy Tax Funding recommendations totaling $201,500 for organizations that promote and conduct tourism activities in the County at a public hearing on Tuesday afternoon.

Topping the list of fund recipients at $100,000 is Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce who’s stated mission is, “To promote an environment conducive to business growth, to pursue economic development, and enhance the quality of life in the Greater Orange Area by providing resources, leadership and support” to its members.

“Additionally, we want the community as a whole to understand the asset we can be as a source of information, a promoter of community involvement and much more.” According to the offical website.

Hill remarked to the court that funding to most recipients is at the same or higher level as was in 2017.

Second only to the Chamber of Commerce, the Frances Ann Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts (affiliated with the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation) requested funds totaling $65,000 however the request was reduced to $25,000.

All other recipient requests were reduced but for Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce, the Orange County Economic Development Commission (for marketing, signage, and advertising), and the Orange Amateur Radio Club.

The Orange County Commissioners’ Court approved 2018 fund recommendations during their regular court session held after the hearing.