MALONE — Franklin County Legislators passed a pair of resolutions on Thursday to provide financial support via occupancy tax funds for two athletic events, a triathlon and a rugby tournament, this summer.

The resolutions are for Can-Am Rugby and the Tupper Lake Tinman, according to an email from Phil Hans, director of the county’s office of economic development and tourism, with each event receiving funding not to exceed $25,000.

The first resolution authorized the county manager to enter into a contract with the Adirondack Sports Council to support the hosting of the Tupper Lake Tinman on Saturday, June 29.

After county legislators passed the resolution supporting the Tupper Lake Tinman, legislators passed a similar resolution authorizing the county manager to enter into a contract with Can-Am Rugby for a tournament from July 26 to 28 in Saranac Lake.

Both initiatives are part of the county’s ongoing commitment to fostering tourism and supporting events that have a significant positive economic impact on the local community, according to a prepared statement from Hans.

“We are thrilled to support both the Tupper Lake Tinman Triathlon and the Can Am Rugby Tournament with funds from our occupancy tax collections,” Hans said in a statement. “These events not only showcase the beauty and hospitality of our region but also bring a significant economic boost to our local businesses and community.”

The Tupper Lake Tinman Triathlon, is celebrating its 42nd year, the release, said, and the event draws participants and spectators from across the country, providing a boost to the local economy.

Similarly, the Can-Am Rugby Tournament, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, is set to take place from July 26 to 28, 2024, according to the release. County officials described the tournament as a “cornerstone event for Saranac Lake,” attracting athletes and fans nationwide.

This is the first time the Tupper Lake Tinman Triathlon is being awarded $25,000 from Franklin County’s occupancy tax collections, the release said, as it partnered with the town of Tupper Lake and contracted with the Adirondack Sports Council to assist in this year’s Tinman.

“The partnership with the Adirondack Sports Council is a game-changer for the Tupper Lake Tinman Triathlon,” Nedd Sparks, R-Tupper Lake, said in a statement. “Our goal is to ensure that every participant and spectator leaves with positive memories and a desire to return year after year.”

Last year, Franklin County awarded $16,400 from occupancy tax funds to support the rugby tournament, according to the county, and this year, the financial support has been increased to $25,000, reflecting the county’s recognition of the tournament’s growing importance and the rising costs of hosting large-scale events.

Franklin County’s financial support for both events is made possible through occupancy tax collections, according to the county officials, and by investing in events, the county aims to enhance the experience for participants and spectators while promoting the region as a premier destination for sporting competitions.