A debate over how tourism revenue is spent led to a successful floor amendment for Article 23, restricting the use of the Tourism Revenue Preservation Fund for consultants. Resident Tom Nanol proposed the restriction, arguing that money was being diverted from community events toward studies with little yield.

The Christmas stroll was almost lost last year because of the money being siphoned out of this account for other reasons, Nanol said, citing a $55,000 sign study that he claimed provided no answers. Town Counsel Jay Talman noted that the fund is legally restricted to economic development, but the meeting ultimately supported Nanol’s amendment to explicitly prohibit consultant spending unless directly tied to economic development.

The fund, supported by local rooms and meals taxes, is intended for tourism marketing and infrastructure improvements. The article passed as amended, signaling a desire from voters for more direct investment in local community events.

Motion: I move Article 23 as printed in the warrant.

Vote: Passed as Amended