Events and Festivals Good for Columbia!

Dr. David Cardenas presented to the Columbia City Council on January 19th, 2016 on the results of a recently completed study on the effective usage of the H-Tax funds to promote tourism and improve the quality of life of the residents in Columbia, SC. The city collects a 2% tax on all prepared foods and beverages and then leverages those funds to promote tourism in Columbia and improve the quality of life of the residents.

The Smart State Center conducted a research study during the spring and summer of 2015 aimed at measuring the impacts of the events supported by the H-Tax funds and also examined the effectiveness of the application process.The results overwhelmingly indicate a high level of satisfaction in the events/festivals currently being supported and a perceived increase in the quality of life among the residents as a result of these events/festivals. Recommendations were to continue and expand the program as funds allow and target visitors from over 50 miles away. In examining the application process,the research team provided recommendations for streamlining the application process and providing additional training. Finally, Dr. Cardenas strongly recommended that the city conduct an economic impact study to provide tangible expenditure data, which he believes will support the program's future.

For more information:  http://coladaily.com/2016/01/20/columbia-city-council-says-no-h-tax-money-available-for-nonprofits-right-now/

For a copy of the report: http://www.sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/hrsm/research/research_centers/richardson_family_smartstate/pdfs/studies/h_tax_funds.pdf