Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, Aug. 19, 2026

The Tumwater, WA Lodging Tax Advisory Committee met on August 19, 2026, to discuss preparations for the 2027 lodging tax funding application process and to review updates on the 2026 funding cycle. Key procurement-related topics included reviewing and potentially revising the application form and scoring rubric to streamline and clarify the process for applicants. The committee emphasized the importance of prioritizing funding for events and activities that generate lodging stays in Tumwater, with a focus on verifying reported impacts through JARK reports and encouraging coordination with local hotels. The committee also discussed recruitment efforts to fill a vacant hotelier position on the committee, including outreach to new hotels such as the upcoming Marriott Townplace Suites. The timeline for the 2027 funding cycle was outlined, with applications opening September 1 and closing September 30, review scheduled for the week of October 19, and recommendations to be presented to the City Council on November 2. No specific contract awards or dollar amounts were decided during this meeting, but the committee focused on improving the application and evaluation process for future funding allocations.