The recent Lodging Tax Advisory Committee meeting in Port Orchard, held on April 18, 2025, focused on finalizing funding recommendations for local projects, particularly in light of the upcoming FIFA events. The meeting, attended by committee members and a few members of the public, was led by Chair John Morrissey, who emphasized the importance of timely funding to support community activities.

A significant topic of discussion was the request for $15,000 from Serotonin LLC, which is spearheading a project related to the FIFA events on behalf of Kitsap County and the city of Bremerton. Morrissey highlighted the need for Port Orchard to contribute financially, as the activities associated with FIFA are expected to benefit the city, even if they are not directly located within its boundaries. The committee recognized that planning for these events is crucial, and timely funding is necessary to ensure that the city can adequately prepare for the influx of visitors and activities.

The committee also addressed budgetary concerns, noting that while there are additional funds available due to unspent allocations from previous years, any adjustments to the budget would require further council approval. This situation underscores the complexities of fund management, as the committee must navigate both current needs and future financial planning.

In addition to the FIFA project, the committee discussed the overall performance of the lodging tax fund, which has seen increased revenue due to higher lodging rates and better-than-expected interest earnings. This positive financial outlook could influence future funding requests, as the committee anticipates a higher demand for resources next year, particularly related to the FIFA events and their impact on local infrastructure.

As the meeting concluded, the committee aimed to finalize their recommendations swiftly to address the urgent needs of local organizations seeking reimbursements for expenses already incurred. The discussions highlighted the interconnectedness of local events and the importance of strategic funding to enhance community engagement and economic growth in Port Orchard.