REGULAR MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2025 AT 2:30 P.M. CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBERS ROOM 1001 300 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Tourism Commission 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, contact Felicia Burleson, (512) 978-1325 or felicia.burleson@austintexas.gov CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Ed Bailey, Vice Chair, D5 Bishop Chappell, D6 Cristina Masters, D10 Anna Panossian, Mayoral Dan Webb, D7 District 9 (vacant) Greg Chanon, D2 Francisco “Cisco” Gamez, D1 Stefani Mathis, D8 Dani Pruitt, D3 District 4 (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 1. Approve the minutes of the Tourism Commission Board Special Called Meeting on November 17, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing from Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson, regarding commission board recent vacancy filled and status, deadlines, resources, and updates. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion regarding the Tourism Commission Board vacancies. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. 5. Discussion and possible action to create the road map for 2026 Tourism Commission Meetings. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 6. 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 Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Felicia Burleson or felicia.burleson@austintexas.gov to request service or for additional information. at Austin Convention Center Department, 978-1325 (512) at For more information on the Tourism Commission Board please contact Felicia Burleson at (512) 978-1325 or felicia.burleson@austintexas.gov. The next Tourism Commission meeting will be on January 14, 2025.
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2025 AT 2:30 P.M. CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBERS ROOM 1001 300 W. 2ND STREET AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Tourism Commission 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, contact Felicia Burleson, (512) 978-1325 or felicia.burleson@austintexas.gov CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Daniel Ronan, Chair, D9 Greg Chanon, D2 Francisco “Cisco” Gamez, D1 Stefani Mathis, D8 Dani Pruitt, D3 District 4 (vacant) CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Ed Bailey, Vice Chair, D5 Bishop Chappell, D6 Cristina Masters, D10 Anna Panossian, Mayoral Dan Webb, D7 AGENDA 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 1. Approve the minutes of the Tourism Commission Board Regular Meeting on October 8, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 1. Staff briefing from Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson, regarding commission board recent vacancy filled and status, deadlines, resources, and updates. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. 4. Presentation by Visit Austin regarding an update on Austin Tourism Industry, including the Austin Convention Center and the Tourism Public Improvement District. Presentation by Tom Noonan, President & CEO. Presentation by Rally Austin regarding the work of the city-sponsored non-profit organization to maintain cultural spaces across Austin to the benefit of Austin tourism. Presentation by David Colligan, Chief Operating Officer. Discussion regarding the Tourism Commission Board vacancies. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. 7. Discussion and possible action to modify the road map for 2026 Tourism Commission Meetings. Approve a recommendation to Council for the Council to continue Austin Convention Center construction project. Approve a recommendation to Council to approve the Rally Austin bond proposals for the 2026 bond election. WORKING GROUP UPDATE 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 Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access …
Tourism Commission Road Map Worksheet January 2026 – December 2026 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) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. January 14, 2026 - ___________________________________ February 11, 2026 -__________________________________ March 11, 2026 -___________________________________ April 8, 2026 -_____________________________________ May 13, 2026 -_____________________________________ June 10, 2026 -____________________________________ July 8, 2026 -_____________________________________ August 12, 2026 -___________________________________ September 9, 2026 -_________________________________ October 14, 2026 -__________________________________ November 11, 2026 -_________________________________ December 9, 2026 -_________________________________
KEEP AUSTIN OURS! 2026 City of Austin Bond Proposal THINK BIG & COLLABORATIVE Rally Austin is the first multi-purpose local government corporation, requested by the community and created by the Austin City Council in October 2020 Community driven, Equity focused Designed to be agile, mission-driven, collaborative and flexible Bring new financial tools and resources to the table and generate consistent revenues Professional approach to community investment and project delivery 2 MISSION Facilitating equitable development for economic growth while preserving Austin's unique culture. VISION A culturally resilient and economically integrated Austin where diverse communities thrive without risk of displacement. Leading investments in our community, as a community Rally will focus its efforts to unite and drive progress across three critical areas of development in Central Texas: ARTS, MUSIC & CULTURE COMPLETE COMMUNITIES CATALYTIC DEVELOPMENT 3 OUR COMMUNITY AT WORK Board of Directors Collaboration of community leaders and nominating bodies who represent local organizations and asset holders. WHO WE ARE 4 ACTIVE COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS Real estate projects valued at approximately $160M, securing an estimated 293,000 square feet of affordable space: 180,000 SF Affordable housing 86,000 SF Cultural spaces 14,000 SF Commercial spaces 13,000 SF Outdoor and shared spaces Collective economic impact projected between $320 to $400M, also providing community benefits: Job creation and tax revenues Property value increases Tourism and cultural preservation Soul and vitality OUR RALLY FOR COMPLETE COMMUNITIES OUR RALLY FOR ARTS, MUSIC & CULTURE OUR RALLY FOR CATALYTIC DEVELOPMENT Mixed-use development Seven real estate Rally moves large-scale, for Blocks 16 & 18 on development projects multi-million-dollar East 11th Street in the valued at $37.5M with an development and African American estimated $75M-$94M infrastructure projects Cultural Heritage District, return on investment. and serves as a flexible building thriving small This area of focus has bridge between public, businesses, cultural led to the successful private, and community anchors and affordable negotiation of a new 20- interests to unlock housing. With a current year lease for historic diverse funding sources project value estimated music venue The Hole in and deliver value and at $128M, and an the Wall and several benefits for all partners. estimated impact of other arts and culture $256-320M. venues. 5 RALLY AUSTIN PROPOSED 2026 COMMUNITY INVESTMENT BOND Overview of Process Problem Statement Proposed Solutions Rally’s Approach Invest in Our Identity: Keep …
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONTINUATION OF AUSTIN CONVENTION CENTER CONSTRUCTION City of Austin Tourism Commission Recommendation Number: 20251112-007 This recommendation from the Tourism Commission identifies the need to continue the construction of the Austin Convention Center which will help support Austin’s thriving tourism economy and long-standing cultural and tourism destinations in Austin. WHEREAS, City of Austin is recognized for its vibrant tourism and cultural arts scene and a diverse and creative community, with a decades-long history as the cultural and counter-cultural capital of Texas which enjoys the competing mantras of “'Keep Austin Weird” and the “Live Music Capital of the World”; WHEREAS, on June 25, 2018, Austin City Council adopted ORDINANCE NO. 20180614-067, establishing the Tourism Commission “to provide expertise and recommendations to the city council concerning hotel occupancy tax revenue collected by the city and issues related to and that promote tourism” and to “advise the city council on … matters relating to the allocation, investment, and budgets for the hotel occupancy tax revenue”; WHEREAS Texas Tax Code Chapter 351, Section 351.101 (a) states that “Revenue from the municipal hotel occupancy tax may be used only to promote tourism and the convention and hotel industry”; WHEREAS, the redevelopment of the Austin Convention Center is a critical investment with longstanding public review designed to modernize Austin's infrastructure and secure its competitive position in the global meetings marketplace; 2 WHEREAS, the successful completion of this project is paramount to growing and supporting the 140,000 jobs sustained by our local tourism and hospitality sector, ensuring job security and economic stability for countless Austin residents; WHEREAS, the new, expanded facility will allow Austin to attract larger-scale conventions and multiple concurrent events that we are currently unable to accommodate, driving an estimated $15 billion economic impact on our community over the next 20 years; WHEREAS, this project is funded exclusively by visitor-paid Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) and Convention Center revenues, ensuring Austin residents' property taxes are not utilized; and the growth of the Convention Center business remains a critically viable path to significantly increasing the total HOT collections; WHEREAS, these collections, in turn, provide the vital and maximum legal allocation of funding for Austin’s Cultural Arts, Historic Preservation, and Live Music Funds; and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Austin Tourism Commission strongly supports and urges the City Council to affirm its commitment to the project's timely continuation, recognizing that pausing or delaying construction would immediately …
RECOMMENDATION FOR ENDORSEMENT OF RALLY AUSTIN BOND PROJECTS City of Austin Tourism Commission Recommendation Number: 20251112-008 These recommendations from the Tourism Commission identify the need to support Rally Austin’s forthcoming bond proposal to support Austin’s thriving tourism economy and long-standing cultural and tourism destinations in Austin facing increased real estate and economic pressure to continue operations as drivers for HOT tax generation. WHEREAS, City of Austin is recognized for its vibrant cultural arts scene and a diverse and creative community, with a decades-long history as the cultural and counter-cultural capital of Texas which enjoys the competing mantras of “'Keep Austin Weird” and the “Live Music Capital of the World”; WHEREAS, on June 25, 2018, Austin City Council adopted ORDINANCE NO. 20180614-067, establishing the Tourism Commission “to provide expertise and recommendations to the city council concerning hotel occupancy tax revenue collected by the city and issues related to and that promote tourism” and to “advise the city council on … matters relating to the allocation, investment, and budgets for the hotel occupancy tax revenue”; WHEREAS, Texas Tax Code Chapter 351, Section 351.101 (a) states that “Revenue from the municipal hotel occupancy tax may be used only to promote tourism and the convention and hotel industry”; WHEREAS, Austin’s cultural, creative, and music sectors are foundational to the city’s identity and economy, contributing over $1.8 billion in annual economic -- including tourism -- activity and supporting thousands of local tourism jobs; WHEREAS, the loss of affordable creative, cultural, and commercial spaces poses a critical threat to Austin’s local music venues, legacy businesses, and community-centered organizations emblematic of Austin’s tourism appeal; WHEREAS, Rally Austin, the City’s first multi-purpose local government corporation, was created by Austin City Council in 2020 to facilitate equitable, community-driven development and deliver projects that generate public benefit – including attracting tourism – while leveraging public, private, and philanthropic resources; WHEREAS, the Keep Austin Ours 2026 Bond Proposal presented by Rally Austin outlines comprehensive strategies for securing cultural, residential and commercial affordability supporting the broader tourism ecosystem, including property acquisition, long-term lease stabilization, capital improvement programs, and expansion of the Austin Cultural Trust; WHEREAS, Rally Austin’s model reduces long-term fiscal risk and administrative burden to the City by independently managing complex real estate and development projects while advancing Council priorities for equity, sustainability, cultural preservation, and increased tourism; and WHEREAS, supporting community-based economic development through the 2026 Bond Program aligns with …
REGULAR MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD October 8, 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) 978-1325 or felicia.burleson@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Daniel Ronan, Chair, D9 District 1 (vacant) Dani Pruitt, D3 Bishop Chappell, D6 Stefani Mathis, D8 Anna Panossian, Mayoral Ed Bailey, Vice Chair, D5 Greg Chanon, D2 District 4 (vacant) Dan Webb, D7 Cristina Masters, D10 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 1. Approve the minutes of the Tourism Commission Board Regular Meeting on September 10, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing from Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson, regarding commission board recent vacancy, deadlines, resources, and updates. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. Presentation by David Colligan, Chief Operating Officer at Rally Austin regarding the work of the city-sponsored non-profit organization to maintain cultural spaces across Austin to the benefit of Austin tourism. Presentation by Lisa and Freddie Fletcher, and in Austin and the importance and impact of legacy businesses and cultural institutions on Austin tourism. Introduction of the current Tourism Commission Board to welcome new members. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. Discussion and possible action to approve the 2026 calendar for the Tourism Commission Board. Discussion and possible action to modify the road map for 2025 Tourism Commission Meetings. Discussion about Tourism Commission Board vacancies. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 9. 10. Update from the AISD Facilities Working Group on new agenda reports regarding the focus of the working group and efforts for recommendations. 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 …
WORKING DOCUMENT: Tourism Commission Road Map October 2025 – 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) 1. 2. 3. October 8, 2025 – Historic Preservation Legacy Business and Cultural Venues & Tourism November 12, 2025 – Tourism Snapshot – Where we are and where we’re going December 10, 2025 – Tourism Commission Work Session
Austin City Council Members and City Manager Broadnax, February 14, 2025 On behalf of Rally Austin, I am proud to present the Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report, a testament to our shared vision for an inclusive, culturally vibrant, and economically resilient Austin. This report highlights our collective accomplishments and demonstrates the positive momentum we’ve achieved together to advance equitable development while preserving the unique cultural identity of our city. This year, Rally Austin made significant strides, including: Surpassing fundraising goals by 22% and securing $428,000 in investments and philanthropic contributions, empowering us to expand our impact across the community. Cultivating a $152.2 million real estate portfolio, projecting 277,500 square feet of future affordable housing, cultural spaces, and shared-use areas designed to uplift local communities. Supporting five creative and iconic venues, including the Museum of Human Achievement with $2.5 million in investments, reinforcing Austin's reputation as a hub for creative expression and innovation. Advancing transformative development projects in the African American Cultural Heritage District, including Blocks 16 and 18, which will provide affordable housing, cultural hubs, and economic opportunities for the community. Looking ahead, Rally recognizes that the journey to create an equitable and thriving Austin is far from over. The demand for affordable creative and cultural spaces continues to grow, as does the need to address disparities across historically underserved neighborhoods. Rally Austin is committed to partnering with City staff to identify and prioritize new opportunities that will bring meaningful and measurable benefits to all communities. Additionally, our team is eager to collaborate with the City to: Support the evaluation and implementation of large-scale catalytic projects that align with Austin’s growth priorities and deliver sustainable economic benefits. Expand our efforts to preserve and develop affordable cultural spaces, ensuring that Austin’s creative identity remains accessible and inclusive. Extend equitable development initiatives to other underserved areas, using the success of Blocks 16 and 18 as a model for future projects. Explore innovative funding strategies and partnerships that diversify resources and reduce reliance on City funding, ensuring a regional approach and the long-term sustainability of our mission. Rally Austin remains steadfast in its mission to unite diverse voices, foster collaboration, and create a culturally resilient Austin. Together, we can preserve what makes Austin unique while shaping a future where all communities have the opportunity to thrive. Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We …
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REGULAR MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD September 10, 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) 978-1325 or felicia.burleson@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Daniel Ronan, Chair, D9 District 1 (vacant) Dani Pruitt, D3 Bishop Chappell, D6 Stefani Mathis, D8 Anna Panossian, Mayoral Ed Bailey, Vice Chair, D5 Greg Chanon, D2 District 4 (vacant) Dan Webb, D7 Cristina Masters, D10 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 1. Approve the minutes of the Tourism Commission Board Regular Meeting on July 9, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing from Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson, regarding commission board recent vacancy, deadlines, resources, and updates. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. Introduction of Dani Pruitt, newly appointed Tourism Commissioner for District 3. Presentation by Julie Davis, President and CEO of the Kerrville Convention and Visitors Bureau, regarding the organization’s economic impact on tourism in the Texas Hill Country and the City of Austin, and its effect on hotel occupancy tax revenues. Presentation by Karyn Mayo, Vice President of Sales, Services, and Strategic Alliances of the Fredericksburg Convention and Visitor Bureau regarding the organization’s economic impact on tourism in the Texas Hill Country and the City of Austin, and its effect on hotel occupancy tax revenues. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. Discussion and possible action to set road map for 2025 Tourism Commission Meetings. Discussion about Tourism Commission Board vacancies. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 8. 9. Update from the AISD Facilities Working Group on new agenda reports regarding the focus of the working group and efforts for recommendations. Update from the Short-Term Rental Working Group on any new reports regarding the STR’s new focus and efforts for recommendations. FUTURE AGENDA …
WORKING DOCUMENT: Tourism Commission Road Map August 2025 – 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) 1. 2. 3. 4. September 10, 2025 – Museums & Tourism Hill Country Tourism Check-In October 8, 2025 – Historic Preservation & Tourism November 12, 2025 – Tourism Snapshot – Where we are and where we’re going December 10, 2025 – Tourism Commission Work Session
Austin Tourism Commission September 10, 2025 Regional Context • Austin is an anchor in Texas tourism • Vibrant regional destinations like Kerrville & Fredericksburg enrich the visitor experience • Regional tourism strengthens related local economies • Shared opportunity: offering depth, additional culture, and historic texture to strengthen Central Texas tourism 2 Tourism Product Kerrville has a diverse tourism product ● Craft food & beverage scene ● Museums & galleries ● Performing arts theaters ● Outdoor recreation & related amenities ● Cultural events & live music opportunities ● Unique & landmark businesses - home of HEB & James Avery Artisan Jewelry ● Well known & established annual events 3 Hotels & Unique Stays Lodging options to fit a wide variety of visitors ● 15 traditional hotel properties w/1,155 hotel rooms ● Two conference center hotels with over 32,000sq ft of meeting space ● Unique stays such as Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Resort and restored historic properties ● Over 110 short term rental properties ● Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center- 20,000sq ft of meeting space, additional arena, meeting rooms, show barn, & event park 4 Outdoors & Wellness The Texas Hill Country landscape creates the perfect scene for outdoor experiences ● Over 20 public parks including Louise Hays Park - 64 acres in downtown & Kerrville Schreiner Park - 500 acres of hiking, biking, camping & wildlife viewing ● 6+ mile Kerrville River Trail ● Kerrville Sports Complex - 104 acres of baseball, softball & soccer fields Tennis Complex & Olympic Pool Three golf courses - newly renovated Scott Schreiner ● ● ● Abundant birding & wildlife viewing ● Riverside Nature Center 5 Culture & Attractions Art, culture & innovation allow visitors to craft a unique and diverse experience with every visit ● Museum of Western Art ● The Coming King Sculpture Prayer Garden - 24 acres & 11 sculptures Three performing art theaters/venues Symphony of the Hills Orchestra James Avery Artisan Jewelry- headquarters & history center ● ● ● ● Gibson’s - one of only two in Texas ● ● Kerr Arts & Cultural Center Schreiner Mansion & Historic Site ● Growing public art scene - over 40 pieces of public art/murals 6 Heritage Tourism ● Schreiner Mansion, downtown revitalization & historic tours (self guided, expanded digital access & in person led walking tours) ● Museum of Western Art - Preserving & promoting the heritage of the American West. Recently …
REGULAR MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD July 9, 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) 978-1325 or felicia.burleson@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Daniel Ronan, Chair, D9 District 1 (vacant) District 3 (vacant) Bishop Chappell, D6 Stefani Mathis, D8 Anna Panossian, Mayoral Ed Bailey, Vice Chair, D5 Greg Chanon, D2 District 4 (vacant) Dan Webb, D7 Cristina Masters, D10 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 1. Approve the minutes of the Tourism Commission Board Regular Meeting on June 11, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing from Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson, regarding commission board recent vacancy, deadlines, resources, and updates. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. Presentation by Justus Zimmerman, CEO and Executive Director of the Austin Symphony, regarding the economic impact of the organization on Tourism and the hotel occupancy tax. Presentation by Micah Andress, President of Austin Pride, regarding the economic impact of the organization on Tourism and the hotel occupancy tax. Presentation by Nicole Klepadlo, Executive Director of the Red River Cultural District, regarding the economic impact of the organization on Tourism and the hotel occupancy tax. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. 8. Review and approval of the Annual Internal Review Report. Discussion and possible action to set road map for 2025 Tourism Commission Meetings. Discussion about Tourism Commission Board vacancies. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 9. 10. Update from the AISD Facilities Working Group on new agenda reports regarding the main focus of the working group and efforts for recommendations. 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 …
WORKING DOCUMENT: Tourism Commission Road Map August 2025 – 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) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. August 2025 – No Meeting September 10, 2025 – Museums & Tourism October 8, 2025 – Historic Preservation & Tourism November 12, 2025 – Tourism Snapshot – Where we are and where we’re going December 10, 2025 – Tourism Commission Work Session
Annual Internal Review 7/1/2024 to 6/30/2025 Austin Tourism Commission The Austin Tourism Commission mission statement is: "to provide expertise and recommendations to the city council concerning hotel occupancy tax revenue collected by the city and issues related to and that promote tourism" In the past year, the Austin Tourism Commission, has sought to establish stability as a concerted voice for tourism in the city by inviting and elevating various speakers to provide insights into the interworking’s of: a. HOT tax funding, including the City of Austin and the State of Texas; b. The Tourism Public Improvement District in addressing the needs of tourism in Austin; c. Arts and culture funds as allocated through HOT tax funding, and the efficacy of these program funds; d. The efficiency and recommendations for improvement of short-term rental (STR) regulation in Austin to aid in increasing HOT tax revenue collection, including a recommendation to City Council with a series of suggestions to improve existing enforcement of unregulated short-term rentals in Austin – this year, the Commission continued its partnership with the Mayor’s office and Council leading to significant changes in STR rental regulation; e. Strategies to promote historic preservation and heritage in Austin to the benefit of tourism in Austin, also reflected by the Commission’s endorsement of the Equity-Based Preservation Plan; f. Strategies to promote cultural heritage districts in Austin, including that of the Red River Cultural District for which the Commission passed a recommendation to fully fund the District; g. Strategies to promote cultural venues, such as the Doherty Arts Center Project for the betterment of the local tourism economy, including a recommendation to Council to continue with funding the Doherty Arts Center Project; h. Strategies to promote library and cultural institutions for tourism, such as the Austin History Center and the Umlauf Museum and Sculpture Garden through presentations from various cultural institutions; i. Strategies to promote clean air in Austin bars and tourism venues through presentations from the Austin Public Health Department and the American Heart Association regarding the dangers of vaping in addition to smoking; j. Strategies to track and promote tourism more broadly in Austin, including outlook presentations from Visit Austin and the Tourism Director of the Office of the Governor of Texas; k. The Austin Convention Center Department on the Austin Convention Center Project; l. Strategies to connect infrastructure projects for the betterment of tourism outcomes, including Austin Bergstrom International …
