The City of Huntsville Tourism Department is accepting applications for 2018-19 Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) funding, and an informational workshop will be held to assist those applicants who are new to utilizing the funds.

The workshop, which will be held from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 31, at the Hampton Inn & Suites, will feature guest speakers knowledgeable on HOT fund regulations, marketing, and other areas.

"We are looking forward to a great turnout for the workshop this year and we are excited about bringing Bob Phillips and the FISH Customer Service Training to our community," said Kimm Thomas, Director of Tourism and Cultural Services.

SHSU’s Peter Roussel will also be present to share how his Priority One class can provide marketing services. Roussel, a former White House Press Secretary, is the Phillip G. Warren Endowed Chair for Mass Communications at SHSU, and leads the Priority One program, which students operate similarly to a public relations firm. Roussel’s long experience and knowledge will be of interest and assistance to attendees, as he will focus on how to take advantage of the tools available to maximize spending.

The workshop will be mandatory for all individuals who are requesting funds in the HOT Fund application. Interested citizens who would like to learn more about the funding are also invited to attend.

"This will be a great opportunity for applicants and citizens alike to hear from industry experts on how to spend the HOT tax, marketing, and event planning," Thomas said. "There is limited seating, so we would encourage interested applicants to RSVP to 936-291-9726 as soon as possible."

Registration deadline will be noon, Wednesday, January 24, 2018.

The workshop is sponsored in part by Hampton Inn & Suites, located at 120 Ravenwood Village Drive.

For more information, contact Kimm Thomas at (936) 291-5932 or visit the City's website,
www.HuntsvilleTX.gov.