A proposed bill could change how the city of Alpine uses its revenue from hotel occupancy taxes, offering more flexibility to support local tourism-related projects beyond traditional advertising. The bill, introduced by State Rep. Eddie Morales, seeks to adjust the unique constraints currently limiting Alpine’s use of these funds specifically to tourism advertising.
According to Marfa Public Radio, local officials and industry advocates support the change, suggesting that it would allow the city to direct funds more broadly within the tourism sector, including visitor centers and arts programs. The bill, however, maintains restrictions against using these funds for non-tourism related infrastructure like road repairs.
For a deeper dive into this developing story, the full article, including perspectives from Alpine’s tourism director and a Texas lodging association attorney, is available through Marfa Public Radio here.
