Guthrie Tourism Commission

Purpose of the Guthrie Tourism Commission

The Guthrie City Council established the Tourism Commission to oversee funds collected by local restaurants (and future lodging establishments). These funds are allocated to support marketing and the development of tourism activities within the city.

Formation of the Guthrie Tourism Commission

The Guthrie City Council passed Ordinance # 2011-18 in November 2011. This followed the ordinance’s publication in the newspaper and two public readings in December. The ordinance took effect in February 2012.

Funding for Marketing and Tourism Development

Ordinance # 2011-18 applies to the retail sales of food, beverages, and non-alcoholic beverages by restaurants in Guthrie and lodging sales for future establishments. A 3% fee is levied on gross food and beverage sales and passed on to customers. Similarly, the same fee applies to lodging sales for future accommodations.

Commission Membership

The commission consists of seven members, who the mayor appoints. These members serve without compensation and represent various backgrounds, including restaurants, lodging, finance, and the general public. The mayor typically makes appointments in February, and commissioners begin their terms on July 1. Each term lasts three years.

Fund Allocation and Management

Businesses collecting tourism fees submit monthly reports based on food sales to the City Clerk/Treasurer, along with the 3% fee. The commission manages these funds to support tourism development in the city.

Responsibilities of Commission Members

Commission members oversee the collection, management, and disbursement of funds. Their main duty is to ensure these funds are used effectively to benefit the city and provide tangible advantages to residents and visitors.

Commission Meeting Schedule

The Guthrie Tourism Commission holds meetings on the last Tuesday of each month at Guthrie City Hall.

Need for a Tourism Tax in Guthrie

The tourism tax supports assets that attract visitors to Guthrie, including the Robert Penn Warren Birthplace Museum, the Guthrie Railroad Museum, and the Guthrie Transportation Museum & Welcome Center. The funds also support events and programs, such as Guthrie Heritage Days.

Confidentiality of Monthly Fee Information

All information about restaurant sales and fees collected under Ordinance # 2011-18 is confidential. City officials, employees, and commission members cannot share this information with others.

Tourism Commissions in Other Cities and Counties

Tourism commissions, conventions, and visitor bureaus are common in many cities and counties. These bodies typically generate funds through lodging and/or restaurant taxes, as outlined in KRS 91A.350-400. Kentucky’s largest industry is tourism, generating more than $12 billion annually across 120 counties.

Benefits of the Restaurant/Lodging Tax and Tourism Investment

Studies show visitors contribute to the local economy by spending money at restaurants, gas stations, and retail stores. In addition, marketing funds help improve the city’s image and attract further investment in residential, retail, and industrial sectors, boosting the quality of life for all residents.

Commission Meeting Times

The Guthrie Tourism Commission meets monthly on the last Tuesday at Guthrie City Hall.