EDGEWOOD CALLS FOR GRANT PROPOSALS: Lodgers Tax Funding Available for Local Tourism

EDGEWOOD, NM – The Town of Edgewood has officially opened the application window for the quarterly Lodgers Tax Grant cycle, offering local organizations and businesses a vital opportunity to secure funding for projects that drive regional tourism.

With the deadline set for Thursday, February 5, 2026, town officials are urging eligible entities to submit their proposals for review. The applications will be evaluated by the Lodgers Tax Advisory Board during their upcoming quarterly meeting scheduled for February 12.

Funding Priorities and Eligibility

The Lodgers Tax is a specific revenue stream generated by overnight stays in local hotels and short-term rentals. By law, these funds must be reinvested into the community to bolster the tourism economy. According to the town’s guidelines, monies are strictly allocated for:

• Infrastructure & Development: Establishing, purchasing, or improving tourist-related facilities and attractions within the municipality.
• Marketing & Promotion: Advertising and publicizing events and attractions designed to draw visitors to Edgewood.
• Public Safety: Providing essential police, fire protection, and sanitation services specifically for tourist-related events.

“These grants are a cornerstone of our economic development strategy,” a town spokesperson noted. “They allow us to support the events and facilities that make Edgewood a destination, ensuring that our local businesses thrive from increased visitor traffic.”

Defining “Tourist-Related”

The Advisory Board emphasizes that projects must have a clear focus on external visitors. Under the current criteria, tourist-related events are defined as those specifically planned for and attended by tourists, while facilities must be intended for use by those visiting from outside the immediate area.

How to Apply

Prospective applicants are required to submit their documentation no later than the close of business on Thursday, February 5. This deadline is strictly enforced to allow the Advisory Board time to review materials before the February 12 session.

Application forms and a full breakdown of the quarterly meeting calendar (including future cycles in May, August, and November) can be found on the official town website: Edgewood-NM.gov/lodgers-tax-advisory-board