1. REGULAR MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD March 12, 2025, at 2:30 pm City Hall Chambers Room 1001 301 W. Second St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Tourism Commission Board may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Felicia Burleson, 512.404.4022 or felicia.ojeda@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Daniel Ronan, Chair, D9 Aileen Bazan, D1 Christian Tschoepe, D3 Bishop Chappell, D6 Stefani Mathis, D8 Anna Panossian, Mayoral Ed Bailey, Vice Chair, D5 Greg Chanon, D2 District 4 (vacant) District 7 (vacant) District 10 (vacant) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Tourism Commission Board Regular Meeting on February 12, 2025. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. DISCUSSION ITEMS Staff briefing from Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson, regarding guidelines and updates for commission board. Presentation by Katy Zamesnik, Assistant Director of the Austin Convention Center Department, regarding the future plans of the Austin Convention Center. Presentation by Liane Conte, Chief of Staff of Project Connect, regarding the EIS of Project Connect and the project’s future impact on Austin Tourism. Presentation by Angela Means, Director of the Office of Arts, Music, and Entertainment, regarding the future ACME Department and its impact on Austin Tourism. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action to set road map for 2025 Tourism Commission Meeting. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Short-Term Rental Working Group on any new reports regarding the STR’s new focus and efforts for recommendations. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call …
Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment Tourism Commission March 12, 2025 Angela Means, MPA, Director Effective February 24, 2025, the City of Austin officially established the Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment (ACME). This marks a significant step in Austin’s commitment to building a more vibrant and dynamic destination for arts, culture, music, and entertainment. 2 HOW WILL ACME BENEFIT OUR COMMUNITY? • Provide centralized support for creatives and cultural organizations. • Enhance economic growth, tourism and civic engagement. • Foster collaboration between artists, cultural organizations, and local businesses. • Create inclusive, accessible spaces for residents to experience arts and culture. • Strengthens Austin’s identity as a global destination for creativity. 3 HOW WAS ACME FORMED? Economic Development Department Cultural Arts Arts in Public Places Music & Entertainment Parks & Recreation Department Museum & Cultural Programs Historic Tourism Special Events (Partial) Development Services Department Austin Center for Events Entertainment Services Austin Public Library Aviation African American Heritage & Cultural Facility Music & Art 4 WHAT ARE ACME’S 2025 GOALS? • Streamline operations • Implement community engagement programs • Launch the development of a comprehensive Strategic Plan • Reevaluation of Cultural Arts and Live Music grant program guidelines • Increase access to programming • Establish new collaborative partnerships with the community and partners across various sectors 5 5 HOW WILL ACME EXPLORE AND LEVERAGE FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES? Grants and Sponsorships Private Sector Tap into local, state, and federal funding to support arts initiatives Seek partnerships with businesses and organizations to secure sponsorships for programs and events Engage with the private sector for donations, corporate sponsorships, and philanthropic contributions Crowdfunding & Fundraising Use crowdfunding platforms to finance specific cultural projects Organize fundraising events to raise awareness and funds for future programs 6 WHAT IS THE TIMELINE TO FULLY INTEGRATE ACME? Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 • Planning & Development • Growth & Expansion • Launch Programs • Establish Community Presence 7 ACME is committed to Building a Collaborative, Vibrant City. 8 8 Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment ACME@austintexas.gov 512-974-1624 Amplifying Austin’s Creative Spirit 9
AUSTIN CONVENTION CENTER REDEVELOPMENT Draft/Confidential PROJECT Introduction Draft/Confidential Austin is the 11th largest city in the country. But the Austin Convention Center is only the 61st largest. Draft/Confidential 3 Once the redevelopment is complete, we expect the Austin Convention Center to be around the 35th largest in the country. Draft/Confidential 4 The redeveloped Austin Convention Center will be larger than: Charlotte Fort Worth Baltimore Nashville Kansas City Pittsburgh Draft/Confidential Once complete, Austin’s new competitive set will include: San Antonio Boston Seattle Philadelphia Denver Draft/Confidential Big changes are coming Draft/Confidential PROJECT SCOPE Draft/Confidential By the Numbers CONSTRUCTION COST $1.26B RENTABLE SPACE AREAS EXISTING CONVENTION CENTER 365,000 SF NEW CONVENTION CENTER INDOOR + OUTDOOR 550,000 + 70,000 SF Draft/Confidential PROJECT GOALS Draft/Confidential Austin City Council Resolution NO. 20210610-096 The City Council seeks to work with the prime architecture firm capable of delivering a world class design befitting a city of Austin’s size and prominence. The Convention Center design shall incorporate the most innovative ideas in programming and placemaking and shall aim to create a civic building that draws and serves Austinites as well as visitors. The City council affirms its intention that the convention Center be, like its companion civic building to the west, the Austin Central Library, a landmark of great distinction, a bustling and vital public gathering place, and a point of pride for the community. Draft/Confidential Uniquely Austin Draft/Confidential SUSTAINABILITY Draft/Confidential Pushing the Boundaries of Green Building • ILFI Zero Carbon Certification • Net Zero Operational Carbon • Embodied Carbon Reduction • LEED Gold • AEGB 3-Star Generational project that is transforming the Austin market for: • high performance design • low-carbon concrete + steel • construction salvage + reuse • mass timber Draft/Confidential RECONNECTING AUSTIN Draft/Confidential UNPRECEDENTED OPPORTUNITIES Intersection of Past, Present, and Future Draft/Confidential Urban to Landscape Draft/Confidential Trio of Landmark Buildings Central Library City Hall Convention Center Draft/Confidential PRESENTING Draft/Confidential Program Spaces Integrated with Austin Experience Draft/Confidential Opportunity for Future Expansion Outdoor Event + The Warehouse • Enhance Connections and Movements • Flexible Event & Gathering Places • Abundant Shade & Comfort • Reflect History of the Site and Materials • Extension of Warehouse District Scale THE BACK YARD R E H T A G FESTIVAL E D A N E M O R P THE WAREHOUSE DISPLAY DROP-OFF BACKYAR D PROMENADE WAREHOUSE EXHALL TRINITY NECHES RED RIVER Outdoor Event Plaza Outdoor Event + The Warehouse …
1. REGULAR MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD February 12, 2025, at 2:30 pm City Hall Chambers Room 1001 301 W. Second St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Tourism Commission Board may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Felicia Ojeda, 512.404.4022 or felicia.ojeda@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Daniel Ronan, Chair, D9 Aileen Bazan, D1 Christian Tschoepe, D3 Bishop Chappell, D6 Stefani Mathis, D8 Anna Panossian, Mayoral Ed Bailey, Vice Chair, D5 Greg Chanon, D2 District 4 (vacant) John Riedie, D7 District 10 (vacant) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Tourism Commission Board Regular Meeting on December 11, 2024. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. DISCUSSION ITEMS Staff briefing from Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson, regarding the vacancy and updates for commission board. Presentation by Tom Noonan, President & CEO, Visit Austin regarding the outlook for Tourism in Austin in 2025. Presentation by Tim Fennell, the Tourism Director of the Office of the Governor of Texas, Travel Texas regarding the outlook for Tourism in Texas and its implications for Austin in 2025. Discussion on attributes for new Tourism Commission appointees and strategies for their approval. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action to set road map for 2025 Tourism Commission Meeting. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Short-Term Rental Working Group on any new reports regarding the STR’s new focus and efforts for recommendations. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Felicia Ojeda at Austin Convention Center …
Tourism Commission Board Meeting Feb. 12, 2025 Austin Tourism Public Improvement District ● 2% assessment fee on taxable hotel room nights for hotels with 100+ rooms ● Funding will allow for enhanced incentives for groups events at the Austin Convention Center and Palmer Events Center, as well as incentivizing in-house hotel groups. ● Allows for increased sales, marketing, advertising and research activities. ● Estimated $30 million in total collections in ● Collections begin April 1, 2025 and first payment expected in first full year August 2025 ● Working on obtaining a line of credit in advance to support initiatives before collections begin TPID Founding Board Alison Berg General Manager AT&T Conference Center Scott Blalock Vice Chair VP/ General Manager JW Marriott Austin Joe Bolash General Manager Hilton Austin Mike Culver General Manager Fairmont Austin Jeff Donahoe Board Chair General Manager Hyatt Regency Austin Rob Gillette General Manager Renaissance Austin Hotel Elizabeth Jackson Area General Manager Hampton Inn South Corynn Hansen General Manager Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Santosh Khanjee Principal Aiden Austin City Hotel Joanna McCreary General Manager W Austin Joseph Pagone Regional Vice President Westin Domain Neal Patel Owner Extended Stay America - North Central Andy Patel Board Secretary Owner Aloft Austin NW Ex Officio Denise Eisman President Austin Hotel & Lodging Association Tom Noonan President & CEO Visit Austin Paul Barnes Deputy Director Austin Convention Center Visitor Center: Phillips Building 103-105 5th Street SAVE THE DATE Tuesday, March 11th Join us for a grand opening event at the new Austin Visitor Center location 4:00pm - 7:00pm 103 E. Fifth St. Austin, TX 78701 SALES & SERVICES Steve Genovesi, Executive Vice President VISIT AUSTIN EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (13) members make up the Visit Austin Executive Committee, a subcommittee of the Board who meet prior to the quarterly meetings to review/approve business activities and action items going before the Board. Skeeter Miller Immediate Past Chair Owner, The County Line, Inc Scott Blalock General Manager, JW Marriott Austin Joe Bolash General Manager, Hilton Austin Greg Chanon Secretary Attorney, Chanon Law Jennifer Currier, General Manager, Sonesta Select Austin North Rob Gillette Chairman General Manager, Renaissance Austin Hotel Cindy Lo President & Event Strategist, RED VELVET Tom Noonan CEO, Visit Austin Vijay Patel Humble Origins Hospitality Management Andy Loughnane President, Austin FC Joanna McCreary General Manager, W Austin Rodney Siebels Director, Global Events and Executive Programs, Hitachi Vantara Trisha Tatro Director, Austin Convention Center …
————[ Austin Tourism Commission, 2/12/25 ]———— Mission Statement Travel Texas’ mission is to enhance and extend local economic development efforts by marketing Texas as a premier travel destination in out-of-state domestic and international markets, generating non-Texan travel to the state, thereby creating revenue and jobs. 2 Travel Texas • Travel Texas is the only entity responsible for tourism promotion to non-Texans. • Major activities performed under the program include advertising, public relations and marketing in domestic and international markets. • Travel research is conducted to provide a foundation to inform and direct the program’s tourism activities and encourage tourism development. 3 Return on Investment State taxes generated by influenced travel from outside the state were estimated at $246 million in FY24 – an increase of 16% over the prior year. I S N O L L M I 4 Halo Effect of Tourism Promotion Travel promotion helps to educate, inspire and ultimately influence travel while also improving perceptions of the state as a good place to: • Relocate a business • Start a career • Start a business • Live and play • Attend college 5 6 Tourism Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) 7 Research & Development Texas Travel Industry Research Detailed industry research reports for travel and tourism in Texas by calendar year are available on request. • Economic Impact of Travel on Texas • Texas Domestic Visitor Profiles – Statewide and Regional • Texas International Visitors Report 9 Interactive Economic Impact Website Local estimates are available to assist travel industry partners with developing tourism. • Regional (tourism regions, heritage trails, MSA’s) • Legislative district • All 254 Counties • 300+ Cities 10 Texas Tourism Regions – Hill Country (2023, YOY) Travel Spending Employment Earnings Tax Revenue $12.3B up 1.2% 103.6K up 6.8% $4.6B up 10.6% $1.2B up 2.9% 11 Direct Travel Spending In 2023, spending by travelers to and within Texas was estimated at $94.8 billion. This spending generated an economic impact of $193.8 billion supporting 1.3 million Texas jobs. s n o i l l i B $100 $90 $80 $70 $60 $50 $40 $30 $20 $10 $- 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Current Dollars Inflation Adjusted (2023) Source: Dean Runyan Associates 12 Spending by Commodity (2023, 2022) Travel spending impacts many sectors of the economy with the largest commodity categories being food service, accommodations, local transportation and gasoline. Food Service Accommodations …
Tourism Commission Board Meeting Feb. 12, 2025 Visit Austin Boards ● Visit Austin Board of Directors ● Visit Austin Executive Committee ● Visit Austin Sports Commission Board of Directors ● Visit Austin Foundation Board of Directors ● Austin Tourism Public Improvement District Board Each Board meets quarterly to review business activities. R E T S O R D R A O B N T S U A T S V I I I Elizabeth Alderson Austin Detours Rob Gillette General Manager, Renaissance Austin Hotel Vijay Patel Humble Origins Hospitality Management Monica Andry President/CEO, Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Ghizlane Badawi CEO, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Dianne Bangle CEO, Real Estate Council of Austin Will Bridges Antone’s Nightclub T.C. Broadnax City Manager, City of Austin Scott Blalock General Manager, JW Marriott Austin Joe Bolash General Manager, Hilton Austin Tina Cannon Executive Director, Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce Greg Chanon Attorney, Chanon Law Jennifer Currier General Manager, Sonesta Select Austin North Mark Duval President & CEO, Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce Jeremy Martin CEO, Austin Chamber of Commerce Nate Hardesty General Manager, THOMPSON AUSTIN| tommie Austin Tam Hawkins President & CEO, Greater Austin Black Chamber of Commerce Cindy Lo President & Event Strategist, RED VELVET | Strong Events Andy Loughnane President, Austin FC Beverly Magee General Manager, Four Seasons Austin David Masters Four Blue Plans, LLC Joanna McCreary General Manager, W Austin Skeeter Miller Owner, The County Line, Inc Tom Noonan CEO, Visit Austin Dewitt "De" Peart President & CEO, Downtown Austin Alliance Zo Qadri Council Member, District 9, City of Austin Jim Ritts CEO & Executive Director, Austin Theatre Alliance Rodney Siebels Director, Global Events and Executive Programs, Hitachi Vantara Steven Stout Executive Director, TSAE Trisha Tatro Director, Austin Convention Center Jordan Uppleger VP of Tournament Business, PGA TOUR Dottie Watkins President & CEO, CapMetro Kirk Watson Mayor, City of Austin VISIT AUSTIN EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (13) members make up the Visit Austin Executive Committee, a subcommittee of the Board who meet prior to the quarterly meetings to review/approve business activities and action items going before the Board. Skeeter Miller Immediate Past Chair Owner, The County Line, Inc Scott Blalock General Manager, JW Marriott Austin Joe Bolash General Manager, Hilton Austin Greg Chanon Secretary Attorney, Chanon Law Jennifer Currier, General Manager, Sonesta Select Austin North Rob Gillette Chairman General Manager, Renaissance Austin Hotel Cindy Lo President & Event Strategist, RED VELVET …
TOURISM COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 12, FEBRUARY 2025 The TOURISM COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 12, FEBRUARY 2025, at 301 w. Second St. in Austin, Texas. Chair, Daniel Ronan called the TOURISM COMMISSION Meeting to order at 2:36 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioners Ed Bailey, Greg Chanon, Bishop Chappell, Anna Panossian, Daniel Ronan, and Christian Tschoepe Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Stefani Mathis Board Members/Commissioners Absence: Aileen Bazan APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the TOURISM COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING on December 11, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of 12/11/2024 were approved on Commissioner Chanon’s motion and Commissioner Tschoepe’s second on an 7-0 vote. The vote was unanimous. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson briefed on updates regarding the vacancy and city policy and guidelines and updates for commissions. DISCUSSION ITEMS variety of items Tom Noonan, President & CEO, Visit Austin presented an updated and outlook for Austin’s 2025 Tourism industry. Other presenters from Visit Austin included Steve Genovesi, Executive Vice President and Shelley Hall, Vice President of Marketing. Tim Fennell, Tourism Director – Economic Development & Tourism at the Office of the Governor of Texas, presented on Travel Texas outlook for Tourism in Texas and its implications for Austin in 2025. 3. 4. 1 5. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from Commissioner Chappell with the Short-Term Rental Working Group progress with their conversation with the Mayor Watson’s office. Also, City Council will be voting on STR recommendations at next February meeting. Chair Daniel Ronan adjourned the meeting at 4:04pm. Motioned by Commissioner Panossian and seconded by Commissioner Chanon. The minutes were approved at the March 12, 2025 meeting on Commissioner Chanon’s motion, Commissioner Panossian’s second on a (6-0) vote. Vote was unanimous. 2 3
1. REGULAR MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD December 11, 2024, at 2:30 pm City Hall Chambers Room 1001 301 W. Second St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Tourism Commission Board may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Felicia Ojeda, 512.404.4022 or felicia.ojeda@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Daniel Ronan, Chair, D9 Aileen Bazan, D1 Christian Tschoepe, D3 Bishop Chappell, D6 Stefani Mathis, D8 Anna Panossian, Mayoral Ed Bailey, Vice Chair, D5 Greg Chanon, D2 District 4 (vacant) John Riedie, D7 District 10 (vacant) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Tourism Commission Board Regular Meeting on November 13, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. DISCUSSION ITEMS Staff briefing from Staff Liaison, Felicia Ojeda, regarding the vacancy and updates on city policy and guidelines for commissions. 3. 4. 5. 6. Discussion on attributes for new Tourism Commission appointees and strategies for their approval. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action to set road map for 2025 Tourism Commission Meetings. Discussion and possible action regarding future scheduling of Tourism Commission Meetings in 2025 WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Short-Term Rental Working Group on any new reports regarding the STR’s new focus and efforts for recommendations. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Felicia Ojeda at Austin Convention Center Department, at felicia.ojeda@austintexas.gov, for additional information; TTY users’ route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Tourism Commission Board, please contact Felicia Ojeda at 512.404.4022 or felicia.ojeda@austintexas.gov. The next Tourism …
3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. WORKING DOCUMENT: Tourism Commission Road Map January 2025 – December 2025 1. 2. Agenda Topics, Potential Speakers & Community Presenters Note: All meetings take place on Wednesdays from 2:30pm-4:30pm in City Council Chambers (unless modified by venue availability) January 2025 – A New Year for Tourism – Convention Center & HOT Taxes February 2025 – Revenues for Tourism – Revisiting STRs & Bonds for Tourism Destinations March 2025 – The Austin Film Industry April 2025 – The Economic Impact of Austin Tourism/Athletics & Tourism May 2025 – Celebrating National Travel & Tourism Week June 2025 – Festivals, Food & Fun July 2025 – Parks & Greenspace August 2025 – Proposed: No Meeting September 2025 – Museums & Tourism October 2025 – Historic Preservation & Tourism November 2025 – Tourism Snapshot – Where we are and where we’re going December 2025 – Tourism Commission Work Session
1. REGULAR MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD November 13, 2024, at 2:30 pm City Hall Chambers Room 1001 301 W. Second St Austin, Texas 78701 Some members of the Tourism Commission Board may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch-atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Felicia Ojeda, 512.404.4022 or felicia.ojeda@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Daniel Ronan, Chair, D9 Aileen Bazan, D1 Christian Tschoepe, D3 Bishop Chappell, D6 Stefani Mathis, D8 Anna Panossian, Mayoral Ed Bailey, Vice Chair, D5 Greg Chanon, D2 Allison Moujaes, D4 John Riedie, D7 District 10 (vacant) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Tourism Commission Board Regular Meeting on October 9, 2024. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. DISCUSSION ITEMS Staff briefing from Staff Liaison, Felicia Ojeda, regarding the vacancy and newly appointed members on the board and updates on city policy for commissions. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Presentation by Katie Edwards, Executive Director of the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum regarding the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum, and its tourism impact & future. Presentation by Cara Bertron, Program Manager of the City of Austin- Planning Department, regarding a follow-up regarding the Equity-Based Preservation Plan & its connection to tourism. Presentation by Stephanie Helfman, Manager, Chronic Disease & Injury Prevention Program, Austin Public Health Department regarding the impacts of vaping and e-cigarettes in public spaces impacting tourism. Presentation by Alec Puente, Government Relations Director, Texas, American Heart Association, regarding the impacts of vaping and e-cigarettes in public spaces impacting Tourism. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action to recommend to the Austin City Council to adopt the Equity-Based Preservation Plan. Approve the 2025 calendar for the Tourism Commission Board. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from the Short-Term Rental Working Group on any new reports regarding the STR’s new focus and efforts for recommendations. FUTURE AGENDA …
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. WORKING DOCUMENT: Tourism Commission Road Map November 2024 – December 2025 Agenda Topics, Potential Speakers & Community Presenters Note: All meetings take place on Wednesdays from 2:30pm-4:30pm in City Council Chambers (unless modified by venue availability) December 11, 2024 – Proposed: Tourism Commission Work Session January 2025 – A New Year for Tourism – Convention Center & HOT Taxes February 2025 – Revenues for Tourism – Revisiting STRs & Bonds for Tourism Destinations March 2025 – The Austin Film Industry April 2025 – The Economic Impact of Austin Tourism/Athletics & Tourism May 2025 – Celebrating National Travel & Tourism Week June 2025 – Festivals, Food & Fun July 2025 – Parks & Greenspace August 2025 – Proposed: No Meeting September 2025 – Museums & Tourism October 2025 – Historic Preservation & Tourism November 2025 – Tourism Snapshot – Where we are and where we’re going December 2025 – Tourism Commission Work Session
Smoke-Free Community Policy Alec Puente TX Government Relations Director Why is Clean Air Important? Review of the Research around Smoke-Free Air • US Surgeon General: Secondhand smoke linked to disease and premature death and those who do not smoke. • Children at higher risk for SIDS, acute respiratory problems, ear infections, asthma attacks, and slowed lung growth • Adults suffer cardiovascular effects, coronary heart disease, and lung cancer • No risk-free level of exposure, regardless of ventilation systems • No adverse impact on hospitality industry • Centers for Disease Control: risk of myocardial infarction and heart disease increases rapidly at relatively small doses, such as those from secondhand smoke • Secondhand smoke is particularly hazardous to elderly people, individuals with cardiovascular disease, and individuals with impaired respiratory function, including asthmatics and those with obstructive airway disease. 2 Business Impacts • Data, surveys, and qualitative research all indicate that smoke-free policies are popular and do not have an adverse effect on economic activity. • The North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study (issued by J.D. Power and Associates) found that, “Nearly nine of 10 guests (89%) say they prefer a smokefree hotel environment in 2008.” • World Health Organization: “smoke-free policies often have a positive economic impact.” • Data shows no effect on bar or restaurant employment. • University of Florida: no negative effect on hotel, restaurant, or tourism revenue or employment; small positive effect on restaurant revenue. • Smoke-free policies have positive effects on profitability, productivity, maintenance costs, and insurance rates. 3 Electronic Smoking Devices & Secondhand Aerosol E-cigarettes, vaporizers, an other new products • ESDs heat and vaporize a solution typically containing nicotine. These are now the most commonly-used form of tobacco by youth in the US. • Not emission-free; the aerosol contains volatile organic compounds, ultrafine particles, heavy metals, and flavorings linked to lung disease and cancer. • May exacerbate respiratory ailments like asthma, or constrict arteries leading to a heart attack. of nicotine. environments. • Non-smokers exposed to cigarette smoke and ESD aerosols absorb similar levels • ESDs have gained competitive advantages in part because of loopholes and gaps in regulation that have allowed them to be used in typically-smoke free • Exposure is declining, but more than 20% of nonsmoking adults are still exposed to secondhand smoke. 4 Policy Solutions Comprehensive Smoke-Free Air Ordinances • National best practice states that an ordinance should apply to smoking …
Electronic Cigarettes ST E PHA NIE HE L F M A N AU ST IN P U BL I C HEA LT H M A N AGER, C HRON I C DI S EASE A N D I N JURY P R E V ENTION P ROG R AM What Are Electronic Cigarettes? •“E-cigs,” “vape pens,” “vapes,” and “electronic nicotine delivery systems” •Produce an aerosol by heating a liquid that usually contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals that is inhaled. Source: CDC The Evolution of Electronic Cigarettes Source:: Sherburne Substance Use Coalition Truth Initiative Vaping Lingo Dictionary: https://truthinitiative.org/sites/default/files/media/files/2020/06/Truth_Vaping_Lingo_Dictionary_FINAL.pdf “Consumers have no way of knowing the doses they are inhaling, the types or concentrations of potentially harmful chemicals, or if e-cigarettes are safe for their intended use.” -2009 Food and Drug Administration (FDA) E-Cigarette Facts • Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine • Long-term effects are still being learned • Secondhand aerosol, or vapor, is NOT harmless water vapor. • E-cigarette aerosol degrades indoor air quality. “Youth use e-cigarettes more than any other tobacco product” -Centers for Disease Control and Prevention E-Cigarettes and Youth Use of E-Cigarettes, By Grade Texas Youth Tobacco Survey, 2023 20% 14% 12% 8% 8% 4% Grade 6 Grade 9 Grade 12 Past Month Lifetime 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% Substances in E-Cigarette Aerosol Photo credit: CDC https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/about-e-cigarettes.html Disposable Vaping Devices •Most popular type of e-cigarette with youth •Disposable e-cigarettes were exempt from federal restrictions on flavors. •Following exemption, disposable e-cigarettes increased in popularity about 1,000% among high school e-cigarette users. Photo credit: Truth Initiative Vaping and Mental Health MYTH: Nicotine can help relieve stress Nicotine can increase feelings of anxiety and depression and increase stress. Source: Truth Initiative Emerging Products: Oral Nicotine Pouches Contain nicotine power instead of tobacco leaf May be marketed as “tobacco-free” Come in flavors such as fruit and mint Second most common tobacco product among middle school and high school youth Photo credit: Campaign for Tobacco-free Kids Laws & Regulations Federal Laws ◦ Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act (2009) ◦ FDA regulation of cigarettes, smokeless, and roll-your-own tobacco ◦ FDA regulates all tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes and vape pens. (2016) ◦ Tobacco 21 Law (2019) ◦ Raised the federal minimum age for sale of tobacco products from 18 to 21 years ◦ Policy on Flavored E-cigarettes (2020) ◦ FDA Limits flavors for specific e-cigarette devices ◦ Menthol exemption ◦ Disposables …
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL TO ADOPT THE EQUITY-BASED PRESERVATION PLAN WHEREAS, Austin’s existing plan to guide historic preservation policies, programs, and activities was adopted in 1981; and WHEREAS, both Austin and the historic preservation field have changed substantially in the past 43 years; and WHEREAS, the Historic Landmark Commission initiated the development of a new preservation plan for Austin in 2021; and WHEREAS, the resulting Equity-Based Preservation Plan (the preservation plan) was developed by a community working group with members from across Austin bringing diverse lived experiences as well as professional and community expertise; and WHEREAS, broad, inclusive outreach and engagement around the draft preservation plan reached more than 2,500 people throughout the city to review and comment on the plan’s goals and recommendations; and WHEREAS, the Tourism Commission received a briefing on the draft preservation plan at its April 2024 meeting; and WHEREAS, the community working group and Historic Landmark Commission revised and finalized the preservation plan based on public feedback; and WHEREAS, the preservation plan aligns with and furthers the goals of the Tourism Commission, particularly recommendations related to moving forward the incentives for placemaking and preservation that provide incentives for creating tourism destinations in Austin. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY OF AUSTIN TOURISM COMMISSION: The Austin Tourism Commission recommends that City Council adopt the Equity-Based Preservation Plan and support its timely implementation.
TEXAS CI TIES WI TH A COMPREHENSI VE SMOKE-FREE ORDI NANCE ANTHONY EL PASO HORIZON CITY SOCORRO SAN ELIZARIO ABILENE SAN ANGELO 107 CITIES AS OF JUNE 2024 12.5 MILLION+ CITIZENS PROTECTED FROM SECONDHAND SMOKE VERNON BURKBURNETT WICHITA FALLS DENTON LITTLE ELM HIGHLAND VILLAGE FLOWER MOUND SOUTHLAKE FORT WORTH BENBROOK DUNCANVILLE DENISON MCKINNEY PLANO UNIVERSITY PARK IRVING DALLAS ARLINGTON MESQUITE LANCASTER DESOTO SEAGOVILLE ENNIS GRANBURY RED OAK WAXAHACHIE MARSHALL LINDALE TYLER HENDERSON NACOGDOCHES LUFKIN WACO LACY-LAKEVIEW ROBINSON COPPERAS COVE NOLANVILLE BRYAN HUNTSVILLE HORSESHOE BAY AUSTIN COLLEGE STATION PRAIRIE VIEW BROOKSHIRE SPRING VALLEY BEAUMONT MONT BELVIEU HOUSTON BAYTOWN MISSOURI CITY PEARLAND DEL RIO UNIVERSAL CITY EAGLE PASS SAN MARCOS NEW BRAUNFELS SCHERTZ SAN ANTONIO VICTORIA PORT LAVACA BEEVILLE CORPUS CHRISTI LAREDO EL CENIZO LA GRULLA LA JOYA PENITAS SULLIVAN CITY PALMVIEW RIO GRANDE CITY FALFURRIAS LA VILLA ROMA EDINBURG ALTON EDCOUCH ELSA SAN PERLITA RAYMONDVILLE LYFORD PALMHURST PHARR ALAMO SAN JUAN COMBES SANTA ROSA RIO HONDO DONNA MISSION MCALLEN HIDALGO WESLACO MERCEDES PROGRESO ESCOBARES BROWNSVILLE HARLINGEN SAN BENITO LAGUNA VISTA PORT ISABEL
Tourism Commission Board Meeting Month Day/ Date Time Location January Wednesday / 8th 2:30pm - 4:30pm February Wednesday / 12th 2:30pm - 4:30pm March Wednesday / 12th 2:30pm - 4:30pm April May June July Wednesday / 9th 2:30pm - 4:30pm Wednesday / 14th 2:30pm - 4:30pm Wednesday / 11th 2:30pm - 4:30pm Monday / 9th 2:30pm - 4:30pm August No Meeting Set September Wednesday / 10th 2:30pm - 4:30pm October Wednesday / 8th 2:30pm - 4:30pm November Wednesday / 12th 2:30pm - 4:30pm December Wednesday / 10th 2:30pm - 4:30pm Council Chambers Room 1001 Council Chambers Room 1001 Council Chambers Room 1001 Council Chambers Room 1001 Council Chambers Room 1001 Council Chambers Room 1001 Council Chambers Room 1001 Council Chambers Room 1001 Council Chambers Room1001 Council Chambers Room 1001 Council Chambers Room 1001 This was approved at the November 13, 2025, meeting with Commissioner Panossian’s motion to approve the 2025 dates for the 2nd Wednesdays of each month at 2:30pm- 4:30pm. Commissioner Chanon’s seconded the motion. The approval passed with a unanimous vote 9-0. Tourism Commission Board 2025 Meeting Schedule
