The Cleburne City Council is considering a significant funding boost for the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum, with a request for an additional $50,000, bringing total support to $150,000. This request comes from the Johnson County Heritage Foundation, which has operated the museum since February 2005.

Currently, the city allocates $100,000 annually to the museum, a figure that has fluctuated over the years, with past funding levels ranging from $20,000 to $55,000. The museum also receives support from the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) and utility assistance, highlighting its importance to local tourism and community engagement.

During the meeting, representatives from the museum, including new assistant executive director Kelly Harris, emphasized the museum's role in promoting Cleburne and fostering tourism. Harris, who previously helped boost tourism in Glen Rose, expressed her commitment to enhancing the museum's outreach and partnerships.

The council is also reminded of the financial landscape, with an estimated $550,000 in hotel occupancy tax revenues for the upcoming fiscal year. However, a contractual obligation requires 79% of these funds to be directed to the CVB, leaving approximately $117,000 available for other allocations, including the museum's request.

As discussions continue, the council will weigh the museum's funding needs against existing commitments and the broader impact on Cleburne's tourism strategy. The decision is poised to shape the future of the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum and its contributions to the community.