The Marshall County Commissioners took action on an ordinance Monday morning that addresses the establishment of a Marshall County Tourism Commission.
The changes evolved from a previous discussion spurred by Karen Shuman, representative of the Culver Visitors Center and Culver Redevelopment Commission, and Marty Oosterbaan of the Culver Redevelopment Commission who asked the commissioners to review the County Innkeepers Ordinance to ensure that it is in alignment with Indiana Code.
Oosterbaan noted that one of the issues with the current ordinance is that two board members are appointed by non-elected officials through local Chambers of Commerce which means private citizens are appointed by non-elected officials who are managing tax dollars. He also mentioned that the current ordinance has a political balance requirement which is no longer a requirement under the new State Statute.
In a public hearing held in January, members of the public spoke in favor of the ordinance as is and that it focus on state guidelines, and focus on people who are appointed who will attract visitors from at least 50 miles away from Marshall County and that those appointees have expertise in tourism, marketing, recreation, hotel/motel and other lodging aspects, arts and culture, and history. There were also comments about providing specific Innkeepers Tax collection and expenditure reports to the county commissioners on a regular basis and ensure financial accountability.
The ordinance presented to the commissioners this week indicates that a seven member board would be created where five members will be appointed by the Marshall County Commissioners, and the Mayor of the City of Plymouth will have two appointees. Those appointed members will populate the Marshall County Tourism Commission.
The members will serve two-year terms with three members serving a one-year term. The initial term for one of the appointees of the Mayor of the City of Plymouth will expire December 31, 2024 and the second appointment will expire December 31, 2025. The initial term for two appointees of the commissioners will expire December 31, 2024 and the initial term for the remaining appointees of the commissioners will expire December 31, 2025.
The commissioners will receive applications in December of every year for consideration. Towns in the county may submit applications for prospective members for consideration.
The Tourism Commission will provide an annual written report to the commissioners detailing revenues, expenses, results, and plans.
The Marshall County Commissioners approved the second reading of the ordinance. The third reading and adoption will be considered for approval in an upcoming meeting.
