Q: A recent AJC article told of the funding cutoff for the Georgia Civil War Commission, which promotes tourism to Civil War sites in the state. Is the commission not eligible to receive grants from the hotel and rental car tax?
—Fred Smith, Tucker
A: The Georgia Civil War Commission, which was created by the 1991 General Assembly to coordinate planning, preservation and promotion of structures, buildings, sites and battlefields associated with the Civil War, does not appear to be eligible to receive grants from the hotel and rental car tax, chairman John Culpepper of Chickamauga told Q&A on the News. "Governor Deal's proposed budget has zero funding for the commission," he wrote in an e-mail. The commission, which acquires or provide funds for the acquisition of Civil War battlefields, cemeteries and other historic sites, can receive and accept loans, gifts grants, donations or contributions of property. The commission also works to promote heritage tourism and provide incentives to local land owners and local governments to preserve Civil War battlefields and historic sites. Culpepper said the Georgia Department of Economic Development estimates the potential impact of the sesquicentennial on Georgia at $300 million and 3,500 jobs, and Sen. Jeff Mullis (R-Chickamauga) is working to secure funding for the commission in the upcoming budget.
Lori Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or e-mail q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
About the Author
