HomeMy WebLinkAbout02.10.2010COUNCIL WORK SESSION
February 8, 2010
4:35 p.m.
Council Chambers
Members present: Getty, Jones, Schmitt, Greenwood, Welper, Hart.
Moved by Hart, seconded by Schmitt that the Agenda, as proposed, be approved. Ayes: Six.
Absent: Cole. Motion carried.
Aaron Buzza, Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director, stated there have been 54
grant applications for the Hotel/Motel Tax grant allocations. Typically a committee
recommendation for allocations is taken to the board and then to the City Council for approval.
Mayor Clark asked for clarification on how the funds are divided. Aaron Buzza stated that the
CVB is given 50% of the hotel/motel tax collected, 20% is reserved for this grant pool, 20% or at
least $125,000 goes to the Convention Center for upgrades and maintenance, and 10% of the
total tax collected is designated to the discretionary fund.
Mr. Welper questioned the amount designated to My Waterloo Days and why only half their
request was funded. Mr. Buzza stated over the past couple of years the CVB has funded their full
request as they made the transition across the river to the River Loop Expo but is pulling back a
little because it is primarily a community celebration and doesn't deliver the same heads and
beds as some of their other applications received. The CVB does believe in the event and
certainly want to participate.
Mr. Getty asked Mr. Buzza to explain the criteria and how it is still the number of heads on beds.
Mr. Buzza reported that is still the main criteria. In addition, the criterion that is also weighed
heavily is that the event is located in City limits and is the planner located in the City.
Mayor Clark questioned what the $10,000 designated to Ragbrai will be used for. Mr Buzza
stated the portion designated to Ragbrai would be put towards entertainment. Bands cost a good
deal of money and that is a large part of what it will be used for. It is planned for the water park
with additional activities in downtown. Mr. Buzza pointed out the inclusion connection will be
encouraged to return with further information and apply for mini grant proposals.
With no further business before the Council, it was moved by Hart, seconded by Schmitt that the
meeting be adjourned at 4:43 p.m. Ayes: Six. Absent: Cole. Motion carried.
Suzy Sc l res
City Clerk