City Oks ATAX Distribution, Tables Vote on Thunderbird Property

Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer

Anderson City Council on Monday gave initial approval to the $254,585.03 (an increase of roughly $60,000 from last year) in Accommodations Tax distributions. These include funds for: City of Anderson Wayfinding and Signage Program: $48,950; Visit Anderson (total for three requests, $36,000; City of Anderson Global Marketing Strategy for the 2024 April INMC Conference, $25,000; Anderson Arts Center $19,000; Soiree $15,000; Market Theatre $12,000; and Anderson Christmas Lights, $5,000. Full list in the agenda here.

As part of the distribution of ATAX funds, 30 percent must be used for tourism promotion, while 60 percent of the funds are distributed based on recommendations of the ATAX advisory committee.

Council tabled a vote Monday night concerning economic incentives for a group planning to redevelop the old Thunderbird Motor Lodge 110 East Sharp Street downtown to allow more time to work with potential partners in the project. Calhoun Lofts LLC, which owns the Calhoun Lofts (old Calhoun Hotel), purchased the property in the summer of 2021 for $1.6 million. The total projected coast of $3 million plans to renovate the structure, which was built in 1958, to include 39 new, urban-style apartments.

Council also approved an ordinance, which is required before elections, making official the April 2, 2024, municipal elections in Anderson. Council Seats for Seats Two, Four, Six, and At-Large Seat Eight will be up for election. Winners of the races will serve a four-year term. The filing period for candidates is noon Jan. 18, 2024, to noon Feb. 1, 2024. Potential candidates can file at the Anderson County Registration and Elections Office at 301 N. Main Street. The last day to register to vote in the April 2, 2024, election is March 2, 2024.