Brevard County's Tourism Development Council voted unanimously on March 25 to revise its tourism grant rules, adding requirements for event organizers to verify no registered sex offenders are employed and to repay funds if events are canceled. The changes aim to prevent misuse of county funds and increase flexibility in how grants are used. Grant money, sourced from a 5% tourist tax on hotel rooms and short-term rentals, can now be used to rent county-owned venues like Wickham Park. Peter Cranis, TDC executive director, said the updates are meant to close loopholes and ensure accountability. "We're trying to make sure we're closing any loopholes whatsoever," Cranis said. The new rules require applicants to confirm no registered sex offenders will be employed at their events, per county code. Organizations receiving grants must also repay the money if events are canceled or fail to meet deadlines. Eligibility for grants is based on out-of-town visitor numbers, determined by cell phone data collected by the TDC. Each county commissioner can also award up to $20,000 in additional funds, though the source material cuts off before explaining how. The changes take effect immediately and apply to all future grant applications. Events that qualify can use the money for marketing costs aimed at boosting tourism. The TDC said the updates reflect a balance between supporting cultural events and ensuring public safety and fiscal responsibility.