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museum. He -emphasized that tourists need sometihing to do when it <br />rains and they can't go to the beach. <br />Ruth Stanbridge, representative of the Indian River Historical <br />Society, asked the Board to reconsider her organizationts request <br />for $3,000 for historical markers and $5,000 to publish a brochure <br />of historic sites. She indicated that she was familiar with State <br />guidelines and that this is a qualified use of tourist tax dollars. <br />She stressed that this was a one-time request. <br />Deputy County Attorney Will Collins questioned whether the <br />markers would be an authorized use. The brochures would be <br />authorized if they were sent to people outside this area. <br />Ms. Stanbridge explained that the markers would be an <br />extension of the museum. The brochures would be sent to areas <br />outside the state and distributed to people who come to Florida. <br />Alan Polackwich, president of The Exchange Club, thanked the <br />TDC and the Commissioners and emphasized that the Air Show is a <br />good tourist attraction that keeps getting better. <br />Lynn Potter, executive director, Riverside Theatre, asked the <br />Board to reconsider their request for $7,591 for a brochure. She <br />stressed that Riverside Theatre is the only professional theater on <br />the Treasure Coast, and their performances have brought in about <br />12,000 people from outside the county who spend money in <br />restaurants and shops. Some of the brochures will be distributed <br />to other Chambers of Commerce and to organizations such as the <br />Florida Professional Theatre Association and the Florida Arts <br />Council. <br />Commissioner Macht wondered how a 20% decline in revenue <br />relates to a reported 24% increase in tourism. He agreed with <br />Mayor Smith that the funds raised in District 1 were to be spent in <br />District 1 and that elected officials should have the right to <br />disburse those funds in accordance with the law. He suggested that <br />the Board consider raising the tourist tax to 3%,, which would <br />enable us to honor our commitment to the City, adequately fund the <br />Chamber of Commerce, and provide funds for these other worthy <br />organizations. However, he cautioned that there should be a strong <br />requirement for fiscal and operational accountability on the part <br />of organizations receiving the funds. <br />29 <br />L_JUN - 8 j99j 8009 89 wf 782 <br />