The City of Boerne is calling on local organizations and businesses to step up and submit their applications for a share of the Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) revenue. These funds are gathered from the tax applied to hotel, motel, inn, and short-term rental accommodation guests, but not everyone can lay their hands on this cash—it's reserved specifically to entice overnight visitors and, by extension, benefit the city's lodging sector, as per the City of Boerne official announcement.
Interested parties have until 5 p.m. on March 20, to submit their paperwork. Applicants can find the necessary forms ripe for the taking on the City's website. To qualify for the HOT fund, projects must meet a two-part test aimed at enhancing visitors' experiences in Boerne while also encouraging overnight stays in the city's accommodations.
Whether it's promoting a sporting event to draw in the crowds or restoring a slice of history for all to appreciate, the expenditure must align with one of nine categories specified by state law. From convention centers to tourist-friendly transportation systems, the scope is broad but intentional, each category chosen with the goal of increasing tourist footfall and occupancy in hotels and the like.
A session to guide potential applicants through the process will be held on March 6, by city staff. Starting at 4 p.m. in the Visitors Center located at 282 N. Main St., city insiders will be on hand to clear up any confusion about the HOT fund application process. For those wanting a head start, sign up by emailing Jeanette Teague or calling (830) 249-7277.
