MS SB2919

Extends the repeal date of the Lauderdale County Tourism Commission law from October 1, 2017 to October 1, 2021.

The commission continues to be authorized to promote tourism in Lauderdale County and operate related facilities with seven members appointed by the Board of Supervisors (3), City of Meridian (3), and Town of Marion (1).

Maintains the 2.5% hotel and motel room rental tax collected by the Department of Revenue, with proceeds (minus 3% collection fee) deposited to the county general fund for tourism promotion and convention center expenses.

Commission director salary and employee salaries cannot exceed 1.5 times the maximum statutory salary for a board of supervisors member, and all staff employment requires board of supervisors approval.

Annual independent certified public accounting audits of commission receipts and expenditures are required, with audit reports filed to the circuit clerk and Lauderdale County legislative delegation.