Alva Review-Courier -

The Alva Tourism Tax Committee approved funding for a golf tournament during the June meeting held Wednesday. Present for the meeting were Chairman Norville Ritter, Dr. Charles Tucker, Melinda Barton and Connor Martin. Terri Parsons was absent.

After approving the May 19 minutes, the committee heard the financial report from Alva Chamber Director Jodie Bradford. With all encumbrances deducted the committee has $407,666.28 available for future tourism grants.

City Business Manager Angelica Brady presented the proposed budget for the next fiscal year. She said at $155,000 it is the same as the current year ending June 30. She said about $87,000 in revenue was received during the current year and about $100,000 was spent. “I feel this year will be better,” she said. Local motels had low numbers during the year due to Covid-19 which resulted in less tourism tax collected.

Brady said she was comfortable with the budget knowing the committee has money in the bank to cover things like their commitment to the Alva Arena.

Ritter asked if she has talked with the state about handling collection of the tourism tax, but Brady said she had forgotten. She promised to follow up.

After approval of the proposed budget, the committee heard from Brandon Long representing the Alva Golf and Country Club (AGCC). Also at the meeting was AGCC manager Jennifer Taylor.

Long said the country club is planning to hold the 59th Annual Nescatunga Golf Tournament the weekend of July 9-11. Last year, they started holding earlier activities to extend the time golfers and their families spend in Alva.

He said they have to bring in ice trailers for the event because they can’t keep up with the demand. The swimming pool at the club is open and operational. The tournament can accommodate up to 44 teams of four.

Tucker asked the cost of registration. Long said they charge $125 per person or $500 per team. That was increased from $100 per person about three or four years ago. Each team must include one person who is an AGCC member but the event attracts a lot of people from outside Alva.

The group asked for $6,000 to cover the banquet and extra labor. They expect registration and cart fees to cover the remaining expenses.

The committee approved granting up to $6,000 for the event.

An executive session was held to discuss a pending investigation and possible litigation with no action taken on return to open session.