History
The Hancock County Visitors Bureau was established in October 2001 through county ordinances that defined its existence, its board and its financial mechanism. The bureau is funded by a 4 percent innkeeper’s tax that is paid by guests who stay at the county’s hotels, motels and bed and breakfast facilities. No general tax dollars support the bureau.
The ordinances became effective on Jan. 1, 2002. A seven-member board was appointed and launched its plans to open an office and begin its task of attracting visitors, enhancing tourism and aiding others in their promotion of Hancock County events and attractions.
On June 17, 2002, lifelong Hancock County resident and former editor of the (Greenfield) Daily Reporter Dave Scott became its first executive director.
The bureau subsequently incorporated as an Indiana nonprofit corporation and has received 501c3 nonprofit status from the Internal Revenue Service.
Since then, HCVB has undertaken numerous projects and has begun to more clearly define its mission and the methods it would choose to achieve it.
The bureau’s job is to promote the Greenfield/Hancock County community. Any efforts, facilities, promotions or mechanisms that improve Hancock County, make it more attractive to others or enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike has the bureau’s interest.
In 2006 the Bureau moved its offices to the second floor of its H.J. Ricks Centre for the Arts at 122 W. Main St. in Greenfield, IN.