Travel & Tourism Board Treasurer Golightly Resigns

After recently being appointed to lead the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce, Jeff Golightly will step-down from his role as treasurer of the Jackson Hole Travel & Tourism Joint Powers Board. JH Chamber of Commerce Board Members and Golightly felt the relationship between the Travel & Tourism Board and the Chamber of Commerce could potentially create a conflict of interest in future voting matters.

"The lodging tax is an excellent resource for our community to create a stronger economy in the shoulder and winter seasons while supporting increased visitor services year round."  Golightly said.  “It was an honor to serve on the board. I am proud of the work we have done and look forward to the board's continued success and the benefit it will bring to our community." Golightly was a respected member of the T&T Board and along with his six board peers, helped establish the strategic plan and operating budget for their portion of the 2% lodging tax. The Joint Powers Board funds the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce for visitor services, event management and tourism trade shows, costs previously supported by the Town of Jackson and Teton County.

In the Chamber's long-term view, lodging tax proceeds are about providing Jackson Hole the best chance to build a stronger economy in shoulder and winter seasons. Arguably as important, they help fund amenities local residents increasingly enjoy and have become reliant on for their quality of life in Jackson Hole, like Pathways and START Bus.  Visitors create stresses on these amenities; lodging tax funds repair and expand them so residents can continue to enjoy them throughout the year.

Proceeds generated from the lodging tax are distributed by state statute through the JHT&TJPB.  In addition to the 60% of funding allocated to the lodging tax board for destination promotion; 30% is allocated to the Town and County for services designed to offset visitor impacts; and, 10% is allocated to the Town and County general funds.

Resignation is effective September 14, 2012 prior to Golightly’s start date at the Chamber of September 17, 2012.  Golightly will be available to ensure a smooth transition with the person designated by the elected officials to take his seat.

"The mission of the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce is to champion the interests of local businesses, enhance their prosperity, and strengthen the economic climate of Teton County."

For more information, please contact Jim Waldrop, Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce Chairman, Board of Directors 307.732.3920 or jwaldrop@worthotel.com.