Meeting Type: BCC Regular Meeting
Meeting Date: 7/21/2026
Item Status: New
From: Felisha Anderson, Director of Archives and History
Submitted by: Felisha Anderson, Director of Archives and History
______________________________________________________________________
ITEM TITLE
Title
Alabama Tourism Department - 2026 Legislative Event Grant Acceptance
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STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
Related to the Alabama Tourism Department - 2026 Legislative Event Grant Program, take the following actions:
1) Accept the 2026 Legislative Event Grant in the amount of $3,900.00 from the Alabama Tourism Department for the Baldwin County Commission (Department of Archives and History) to assist with expenses involved with the Christmas Drive-Thru Lights Display (November 30 - December 23, 2026); and
2) Authorize the Chairman to execute the Letter of Understanding between the Baldwin County Commission and the Alabama Department of Tourism and any other documents related to this grant.
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Background: The 2026 Tourism Community Grant Program is designed to attract out-of-state tourists and generate revenues by promoting attendance at community-wide special events. Since out-of-state visitors spend more money than local attendees, the highest priorities were given to attractions and events that will bring tourists from other states. The funds will be used to continue to market North Baldwin County and Baldwin County Bicentennial Park through community events and festivals.
Grant funds were supported by Senator Chris Elliott.
Previous Commission action/date: March 3, 2026 - Approved the submittal of the Alabama Tourism Department 2026 Legislative Event Grant Application by Archives and History Department staff, on behalf of the Baldwin County Commission, requesting grant funds for the Christmas Lights Drive Through Display (November 30 - December 23, 2026).
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Total cost of recommendation: Incoming Revenue of $3,900.00 - Payment will be made upon execution of the Letter of Understanding.
Budget line item(s) to be used: 106-51907-51502 Commission Sponsored Events
If this is not a budgeted expenditure, does the recommendation create a need for funding? N/A
LEGAL IMPACT
Is legal review necessary for this staff recommendation and related documents?
N/A
Reviewed/approved by: N/A
Additional comments: N/A
ADVERTISING REQUIREMENTS
Is advertising required for this recommendation? N/A
If the proof of publication affidavit is not attached, list the reason: N/A
FOLLOW UP IMPLEMENTATION
For time-sensitive follow up, select deadline date for follow up: N/A
Individual(s) responsible for follow up: Commission Administration - Have Chairman sign document and courier original to Felisha Anderson, Archives Director. Ms. Anderson will submit all required documents and reports to complete the grant as requested by the Alabama Tourism Department.
Katrina Taylor, Grants Coordinator entered grant in Munis.
cc: Beth Hodges, Lynzie Clark, Tara Hazelbaker, Dana Austin, Wanda Gautney, Christie Bezoari, Brian Underwood, Katrina Taylor, Roger Rendleman
Action required (list contact persons/addresses if documents are to be mailed or emailed): Email correspondence of Commission decision to: Felisha Anderson.
Additional instructions/notes: N/A