Uvalde County Resident and Owner of Buchanan Cabins, Helen Burgin spoke to the Uvalde County Commissioner’s Court at their Monday, April 25th meeting and presented the case for temporarily putting The Uvalde County River Region’s Hotel/Motel Tax on a temporary hold.
Burgin cited the level of inflation being one reason to consider the pause. She argued that eliminating the tax on tourists staying in the River Region area will save them the additional cost, allowing for more of those dollars to be spent at restaurants and other local businesses.
Burgin also brought up The Hill Country River Region (THCRR) has not had a board election in 3 years. “Communication is terrible,” she said.
Burgin also announced that at the next THREE board election, she is running for a board member position. “I want to let you know what’s going on at THCRR,” she said
Prior to Burgin’s agenda item being heard by the Commissioner’s Court, THCRR Board President Jamie Holmes presented THCRR proposed budget to the Court. In Holmes’ presentation, she stated THCRR has not selected a new Executive Director yet but several have expressed an interest in the position.
Earlier this year, THCRR Annabell McNew resigned as THCRR Executive Director
Following Burgin’s presentation, Concan area business owner Jake Guerrero spoke in favor of keeping the HOT Tax. He stated he doesn’t think the 4% tax will affect tourism or allow for more money to be spent on items and services.
He also recommended waiting for the Executive Director position to be filled before taking action on the tax.
He went on to say if the HOT tax is put on hold, it may affect the THCRR planning for the upcoming 2024 Total Solar Eclipse.
The Commissioners Court took no action on either the THCRR proposed budget or on Burgin’s proposal to temporarily suspend the HOT Tax.
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