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Investing in the Visitor’s Future

The Cabarrus County CVB’s Budget is based primarily on the Occupancy Tax Collections paid by visitors who stay in a Cabarrus County lodging property. As our budget grows, so do opportunities and advancements for the visitor’s benefit as we cycle their dollars back into the destination.

In 2003, the tax rate was 3% and the lodging properties were limited service providing rooms for leisure race fans, corporate transient travelers, sporting events, and group tour travel. Shortly after, the occupancy tax rate was moved to 5% and subsequently to 6% (the state maximum rate) to help provide additional funds to market the growth of the destination.

Growth in revenues has afforded the Cabarrus County CVB the opportunity to market, sell and provide services to even larger audiences. Additions to Cabarrus County that have had significant impacts on the tourism industry include Cabarrus Arena & Events Center in 2003, Embassy Suites and Concord Convention Center in 2007 and Great Wolf Lodge in 2009. Additionally, the Cabarrus County CVB has been able to utilize revenues on destination management to improve the visitor experience. This includes assisting with projects such as the flyover bridge into Concord Mills, countywide wayfinding signs, and turf fields at local area high schools.

In the spring of 2020, the effects of COVID-19 caused devastating consequences around the world. The tourism industry took the brunt of the economic losses as people stopped travelling. Cabarrus County is recovering from those losses and is back on progress providing visitors memorable experiences throughout the year.