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 …
TOURISM ECONOMIC IMPACT OF THE ASO Austin Tourism Commission Meeting | July 9, 2025 PROVEN ORCHESTRA TOURISM IMPACT National Success Models Pittsburgh Symphony $125M Economic Impact 4:1 ROI ($33M budget) 1,900 Jobs Created Boston Symphony $261M Economic Impact 2,400 Jobs Supported Statewide Impact ✓ Downtown Venues ✓ Tourism Partnerships ✓ Community Engagement CLASSICAL MUSIC'S CULTURAL RESURGENCE The Newcomer Phenomenon 46% Under-35s MORE ENGAGED than parents (65% vs 57%) Source: Royal Philharmonic Orchestra 2024 Audience Report AUSTIN SYMPHONY'S CURRENT TOURISM IMPACT Hidden Economic Engine Bastrop (44) Pflugerville (202) Georgetown (197) Cedar Park (210) Round Rock (304) Leander (193) San Marcos (72) San Antonio (78) 2,879 Tickets Texas (50+ miles) 264 Tickets | National Visitors Key Tourism Markets: • Major suburbs: Round Rock (304), Cedar Park (210), Georgetown (197) • Regional cities: San Antonio (78), San Marcos (72) • National reach: CA (42), NY (22), PA (14) ECONOMIC MULTIPLIER EFFECT How Orchestra Tourism Works 3,143 TICKETS (Out of Area) $184 avg Ticket → RIPPLE EFFECT HOTEL + DINING + SHOPPING + TRANSPORT → TOTAL IMPACT $400+ TOTAL ECONOMIC ACTIVITY TOURIST PROFILE • Stay 22% longer • Spend 38% more • Higher repeat visits • 81% college-educated • 55% earn $100K+ GEOGRAPHIC BREAKDOWN: • 2,879 Texas visitors (50+ miles from Austin) • 264 National visitors (42 CA, 22 NY, 14 PA) • International visitors AUSTIN'S MUSIC TOURISM OPPORTUNITY From Classical to Live Music Capital AUSTIN TOURISM ECONOMY $8.2 BILLION ANNUALLY 114 Years Austin's Oldest 200,000+ People Reached 25,000 Students Served Downtown Long Center GROWTH VISION: POPS PROGRAMMING Doubling Our Tourism Draw CURRENT SUCCESS ──────────► 2025-26 STRATEGY Highest grossing films 2X Movie Concerts Out-of-City Draw Enhanced Tourism Appeal FAMILY-FRIENDLY programming extends visitor stays ACCESSIBLE entry point for newcomers (54% of audiences) KNOWN SUCCESS attracting out-of-city audiences GROWTH VISION: BIG NAME PARTNERSHIPS Live Music Capital Integration ROCK & ROLL CLASSICAL ASO: IN THE THICK OF IT ALL HIP-HOP COUNTRY FROM: "Austin's oldest live music" TO: "Vibrant and in the thick of it all" Programming Examples: • Orchestra + Rock collaborations • Hip-hop crossover events • "Music for All" inclusive model PARTNERSHIP FRAMEWORK How We Work Together ASO PROVIDES TOURISM PARTNERS GAIN Proven tourism draw (3,000+ out of area tickets) Authentic cultural experiences that extend visitor stays High-value tourists (2x local spending) Superior spending tourists (38% more per day) 200,000+ annual reach Year-round programming Historic credibility + Cultural tourism marketing modern commercial approach content & authenticity …
Tourism Commission July 9, 2025 RED RIVER CULTURAL DISTRICT About Our ORGANIZATION The Red River Cultural District is a creative community providing authentic Austin experiences through diverse local music, art and food for every fan and guest. In an ever-changing ATX, our nonprofit seeks to PRESERVE and GROW Red River's creative, business, and music scene. As a community rooted in artists, musicians, performers, music venues, cultural institutions and small businesses, the District embodies the soul and heart of Austin. WHO ARE WE 🎸 10+ Iconic Live Music Venues – These independent venues serve as launching pads for local musicians, artists, and performers, fostering talent and keeping Austin’s music scene alive. 🎶 Free, Community-Powered Music Festivals – Events like Free Week (January) and Hot Summer Nights (July) bring over 500+ local artists together each year, supporting not just musicians but also our local creative industry—photographers, videographers, designers, and more. Our events attract over 30,000+ attendees! 🏆 Red River’s Legacy as a State-Designated Cultural District – Recognized by the Texas Commission on the Arts in 2020, our district is dedicated to preserving Austin’s live music heritage for future generations. 🎤 A Stage for Thousands of Local Artists – Live music happens here 365 days a year, creating an essential pipeline for Austin’s grassroots musicians to grow and thrive. 💼 Hundreds of Jobs in Hospitality & Tourism – From bartenders and sound engineers to security staff and operators, the district supports local jobs and keeps Austin’s nightlife economy thriving. PRESERVE + GROW AUSTIN’S MUSIC MILE With a mission to preserve and grow Austin Red River's creative, business, and music scene our efforts are rooted in several initiatives and programs. FREE WEEK HOT SUMMER NIGHTS DISTRICT DIALOGUES CULTURAL CURRENTS RED RIVER DAZE SUPPORTING MUSICIANS + CREATIVES EVENTS About Our FESTIVAL FREE WEEK Free Week (January) Eat, Drink, Celebrate, Live Music. Free Week started in 2003 at the legendary Emo’s (6th and Red River) as a way to keep the club’s lights on and staff working during the dead of winter when business was historically slow. What started as a on-venue annual event grew into a movement rooted in the Red River Cultural District, with tens of thousands attending annually. Free Week 2025 IMPACTS January 3 + 4 , 2025 Live Performances 90+ 390+ Estimated Paid Artists + Performers 2 Nights 19 Participating Businesses 12 Music Venues 14,000+ Festival Attendees 10 Artists, Photographers, Videographers, Designers, …
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 Tourism Commission has made significant strides in improving the efficiency and enforcement of short-term rental (STR) regulations in Austin, focusing on increasing HOT tax revenue collection through addressing unregulated STRs. This year, the Commission presented a series of recommendations to the City Council, aimed at strengthening licensing and enforcement mechanisms and refining existing policies. Through continued collaboration with the Mayor’s office and City Council, these efforts have led to significant changes in STR regulation, promoting greater license adoption, increasing revenue, and ensuring a more transparent and sustainable rental market in Austin. 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; Approved 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 …
Tourism Commission MEETING MINUTES (10, September, 2025) TOURISM COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 9, JULY 2025 The TOURISM COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 9, JULY 2025, at 301 w. Second St. in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair, Ed Bailey called the TOURISM COMMISSION Meeting to order at 2:40 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioners Ed Bailey, Bishop Chappell, Cristina Masters and Stefani Mathis Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Greg Chanon and Anna Panossian Board Members/Commissioners Absence: Commissioners Daniel Ronan and Dan Webb APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the TOURISM COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING on June 11, 2025. The minutes were approved at the July 9, 2025, meeting on Commissioner Masters motion, Commissioner Chappell second on a (6-0) vote. Vote was unanimous. Vice Chair Ed Bailey, Commissioners Bishop Chappell, Stefani Mathis, Anna Panossian, Cristina Masters, and Greg Chanon. Commissioner Daniel Ronan and Dan Webb was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson briefed on updates regarding commission board resources and updates for commission’s vacancy, city policy and guidelines and resources DISCUSSION ITEMS variety of items 3. 4. Justus Zimmerman, CEO and Executive Director of the Austin Symphony, presented on the economic impact of the organization on Tourism and the hotel occupancy tax. Nicole Klepadlo, Executive Director of the Red River Cultural District, presented on the economic impact of the organization on Tourism and the hotel occupancy tax. 1 Tourism Commission MEETING MINUTES (10, September, 2025) DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Discussion and possible action on the Tourism Commission Annual Internal Review Report. a. The motion to approve Tourism Commission Annual Internal Review Report was approved on Commissioner Master’s motion, Commissioner Chanon’s second on a (6-0) vote. b. Vote was unanimous. Vice Chair Ed Bailey, Commissioners Bishop Chappell, Stefani Mathis, Anna Panossian, Cristina Masters, and Greg Chanon. Commissioner Daniel Ronan and Dan Webb was absent. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 6. 7. Commissioner Masters reported on an update regarding the AISD Facilities Working Group. Commissioner Chappell had no new update from the Short-Term Rental Working Group FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 8. 2026 Calendar Topics a. Commissioner Mathis suggest for 2026 calendar to discuss how to improve 6th Street and Parking issues. b. Bring in Developers of current and future development projects. c. City department hosting events that influence road closures. d. Restaurants and rating scores. Vice Chair, Ed Bailey adjourned the meeting at 4:10 p.m. with the motioned by Commissioner Chappell …
REGULAR MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD June 11, 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 May 14, 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 Glen Alan Phillips, CEO of Austin Rodeo to discuss the economic impact of the organization on Tourism and the Hotel Occupancy Tax. Presentation by John Villarreal, Community Liaison & Director of Government Relations of Circuit of the Americas to discuss the economic impact of the organization on Tourism and the Hotel Occupancy Tax. Presentation by Micah Andress, President of Austin Pride to discuss 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 …
WORKING DOCUMENT: Tourism Commission Road Map July 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. 6. July 9, 2025 – Festivals, Food & Fun August 2025 – Proposed: 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 …
