The City of Dublin Hotel/Motel Tax Fund is designed to enhance the quality of life for residents, corporate citizens, and visitors in Dublin, Ohio. This fund is generated from a 6% tax on overnight stays at the nearly 20 hotels and motels in the area. The revenue collected is reinvested into the community through various projects and events aimed at improving the city's appeal to tourists and visitors. Each year, the City Council allocates a budget of at least $225,000 or 6.5% of the previous year's actual hotel/motel tax revenue to support community organizations through this grant.

The primary purpose of the Hotel/Motel Tax Grant is to support initiatives that enhance the experience of both residents and visitors in Dublin. The City prioritizes funding for projects that generate overnight stays in local hotels, promote Dublin businesses, attract positive media coverage, and reach a wide audience within the community. Additionally, the City encourages organizations to seek multiple funding sources and to collaborate with other event organizers to maximize the impact of their projects.

Eligible applicants for this grant include federally recognized, tax-exempt nonprofit organizations, specifically those classified under 501(c)(3). The grant can be used for various purposes, including the beautification of public property, improvements to Dublin's historic district, special events that appeal to tourists, and cultural arts projects. However, certain limitations apply, and funding is not available for individuals, political organizations, travel outside of Dublin, for-profit ventures, or budget deficits incurred prior to application.

Organizations that have received funding for three or more consecutive years are required to match 25% of the grant funds awarded. Additionally, applicants must submit a 990 form to demonstrate their financial sustainability and enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Dublin. This agreement will outline the specific items to be funded by the grant and the general expectations associated with it. Funds will not be reimbursed for expenses not included in the MOU.

The evaluation of grant applications will consider how well the proposed projects align with the community's goals and values, as well as their potential to yield benefits for the community. The City is particularly interested in projects that foster cooperation among event organizers and enhance the overall community experience.

The deadline for submitting applications for the City of Dublin Hotel/Motel Tax Grant is September 26, 2024. Interested organizations should ensure that they meet the eligibility criteria and prepare their applications accordingly. For further information, applicants can contact Emily Goliver at the City of Dublin via email or phone.