Lake County is accepting applications for tourism capital projects funding

TAVARES—The Lake County Economic Development & Tourism Division is accepting applications for the Tourist Development Capital Projects Funding Program. Funded through the Lake County Tourism Tax, the purpose of the program is to allow local organizations to apply for funds for capital infrastructure that will enhance Lake County as a tourist destination.

The deadline date to submit applications is 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 17 at the ED&T Office, Suite 520, Attn: Adam Sumner.

The Tourist Development Council will hold its first preliminary hearing to review the projects submitted on Monday, April 10 at 3 p.m. and the second hearing is set for Tuesday, April 25 at 3 p.m.Both hearings will take place at the Lake County Board of County Commissioners’ Board Chambers, located on the second floor of the Lake County Administration Building, 315 W. Main St., Tavares.

To be eligible for the Tourist Development Capital Project Funding Program, projects must be located within Lake County and serve to establish new, or expand existing, facilities for recreational activities, cultural events and performances that host and promote events in Lake County. Projects must also bring substantial numbers of overnight tourists/visitors to the County. Applicants must provide a 50 percent cash match.

The Tourist Development Capital Projects Funding Program was created to process requests for tourist development tax funds to be used for capital projects. The Lake County Tourist Development Tax is used to fund the promotion of tourism and attract tourists to visit Lake County. The Lake County Tourist Development Council was established to recommend to the Lake County Board of County Commissioners uses of the tourist development tax revenue in accordance with the Lake County Tourist Development Plan.

For more information or to obtain an application for the Capital Projects Funding Program, contact the Lake County Economic Development & Tourism Division at 352-742-3924 or visitwww.lakecountyfl.gov/visitors/capital_projects_funding_program.aspx.