Thurman Occupancy Tax Grant Information
Download Grant Application Package |

Read the frequently-asked questions below to learn about how Thurman grants money from its share of the Warren County Occupancy Tax funds. Learn, too, what is required to be eligible, and find out how to apply. Links on this page will take you to the necessary forms, and to more information about the Thurman Occupancy Tax Committee. Still have questions? .

1. What is the Occupancy Tax and what is the purpose of the OT Grants? The OT, known as the “bed tax”, is levied on rooms in places of lodging - i.e., motels, hotels, B&Bs, inns. Revenues from this tax are returned to towns, like Thurman, for the express purpose of promoting tourism.

2. How are these revenues distributed? Monies are awarded as grants for programs/projects/events that will attract tourists (nonresidents participants) to Thurman. Grants may not be used solely to serve residents. An application must be completed and submitted to the Thurman OT Committee for review by the stated deadline. If questions arise regarding the eligibility of a specific expenditure or activity, the Warren County attorney is the final arbiter.

3. Who may apply? Individuals, non-profit and for-profit organizations, clubs and groups, sole businesses and business consortiums in Thurman. Note that grants cannot be used for normal operating expenses or for capital improvements not directly related to tourism.

4. What types of activities are eligible for funding? A wide range - from special one-day events like concerts, fairs and fireworks to weekend events like maple sugar festivals, farmers’ markets and town-wide sales to permanent tourist attractions like historic guided tours, maps and signage, nature trails and outdoor “adventure activities” (hiking & biking, hunting & fishing, white water rafting, etc.). Only your imagination - and the purpose of the grants, tourism - limits the possibilities! Preference will be given to NEW events; “repeat” grant applications for annual events should incorporate new, expanded programs and activities in order to sustain eligibility.

5. What percentage of the event budget will the grant monies cover? A grant award may be given for a single item (i.e an advertising banner or promotional material) or pro vide a major portion of the budget. In all cases, it is expected that the applicant contribute substantially to the event in terms of money, human resources and in-kind contributions. An OT grant may not be the sole support of a project.

6. What is the application deadline? There are four opportunities for submitting grant applications: January 1, April 1, July 1, Oct. 1

7. Where can I get additional information about eligibility for OT grants? Click to visit our web page on Warren County Spending Guidelines.

8. Where can I get an Occupancy Tax Grant application form and final report form? Both the grant application and the required final report form can be accessed and printed from this website, or copies may be picked up at Town Hall.

Download Grant Application Package