Eight applicants to share in OC “HAT” money

Eight Oconee groups that stage events to bring visitors to the county are to share in $30 thousand worth of hospitality and accommodations tax money. And they are to use their shares to sponsor future events that’ll have the effect of growing county tourism even more. At a meeting today, the county’s PRT commissioners agreed to recommend to County Council that Seneca Fest, in the amount of $10,500, and Walhalla Civic Auditorium, in the amount of $9 thousand, receive the largest increments. Three other groups that made application were passed by: the Collins Children’s mud run, Upstate Forever’s Rally in the Valley, and West Union’s Sun in the Fun Festival. According to Rosemary Bailes, commission chairwoman, the three left out is not a reflection on those groups individually or the events they sponsor. Rather, she said, it’s the reality of having to parcel out $30 thousand among the several applicants. The money represents the spring cycle of “HAT” funds available to Oconee.