Clinton SC, October 17, 2025
News Summary
The City of Clinton has dedicated nearly $78,000 from accommodations tax (ATAX) funds to support local tourism initiatives. This funding will benefit several organizations aiming to promote tourism in the area. The ATAX Committee evaluated applications and allocated funds primarily for advertising to attract visitors. This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to enhance the local economy through tourism and support for community organizations.
Clinton, South Carolina – The City of Clinton has dedicated nearly $78,000 from accommodations tax (ATAX) funds to support local tourism initiatives. This funding stems from a two-cent sales tax applied to hotel, bed and breakfast, and short-term rental stays, which is redistributed from the state back to cities.
The ATAX funding process is overseen by volunteer-citizen committees that assess applications from organizations seeking financial support. Kay Addison, chair of the ATAX Committee, represents the arts community in this review process. This year, the committee determined that seven organizations met the eligibility criteria for funding based on their applications.
Distribution of Funds
The total amount allocated for distribution equals $77,466.92, divided amongst the following organizations:
- Clinton Canopy: $2,500
- Clinton YMCA: $15,000
- Laurens County Community Theatre: $10,000
- Musgrove Mill State Historic Site: $15,000
- Presbyterian College family and friends weekend: $5,000
- Laurens County Rev 250: $5,000
- Main Street Clinton: $24,966.92 (remaining funds)
ATAX funds are primarily allocated for advertising and promotional efforts aimed at attracting tourists, rather than for capital expenses. Addison, while discussing the allocation, expressed a desire to make a personal contribution to round up the amount but was informed that such actions were not permitted.
Annual Application Process
The application and qualification process for ATAX funding occurs annually in August and September, allowing organizations to submit proposals for financial assistance aimed at boosting tourism in the Clinton area.
Other Council Business
In a recent council meeting, the City Council also made several important announcements. They designated November 7 as Arbor Day and proclaimed October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Additionally, October 5-11 was recognized as Public Power Week. The council approved a 12-month extension for Planning Commission members whose terms are expiring to ensure consistent progress on the city’s Comprehensive Plan.
City Manager Joey Meadors reported that Clinton will receive $371,773 for fire services in a five-mile radius outside the city limits, based on a contract with Laurens County. The payment schedule for this funding is set at three intervals: 50% on January 15, 25% on April 15, and the remainder by June 15, 2026. The council discussed the potential need for additional funding in future contracts for fire protection services.
Approval was granted for a sewer trunk line connection linked to the Dutton Farms subdivision, which aligns with ongoing residential development projects. Additionally, the City accepted a $31,000 loan-forgiveness-eligible appropriation from the SC Water Revolving Fund to conduct a study on “forever chemicals” in the water supply, in anticipation of expected EPA regulations regarding water purity.
Meadors also provided updates on various infrastructure improvements and repairs within city facilities, including the Police/Fire Station and recreational complex. Moreover, the council recognized local businesses for their milestones, namely Thornwell for its 150th anniversary and Clinton Tire for its 50th anniversary.
Conclusion
The recent allocation of ATAX funds represents a significant commitment by the City of Clinton to promote tourism and enhance the local economy, with diverse community organizations benefiting from this financial support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total amount of ATAX funding allocated by the City of Clinton?
The total amount allocated for distribution equals $77,466.92.
How is ATAX funding sourced?
This funding comes from a two-cent sales tax on hotel, bed and breakfast, and short-term rental stays, redistributed from the state back to cities.
Who evaluates the applications for ATAX funding?
Volunteer-citizen committees evaluate applications from organizations seeking funding, with Kay Addison representing the arts community as chair of the ATAX Committee.
What are the main purposes of using ATAX funds?
ATAX funds are designated primarily for advertising and promotional efforts aimed at attracting tourists rather than for capital expenses.
When does the application process for ATAX funding occur?
The application and qualification process occurs annually in August and September.
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Additional Resources
- GoLaurens: Clinton ATAX Committee Recommendations
- Post and Courier: Cell Phone Data York County
- Spectrum Local News: Kingstree Town Curfew
- GoLaurens: Arrest Report for January 15
- My Clinton News: Come Fly with Us
- Wikipedia: Tourism
- Google Search: Local Tourism Initiatives
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tourism
- Google News: City Manager Updates
Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON
The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
