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 …
2024 F1 USGP ECONOMIC IMPACT 2024 Total Estimated Impacts to Texas It is estimated, based on the online attendee survey that was administered immediately following the 2023 F1 USGP event, that OOS attendees will directly spend over $472.6 million in Texas because of the 2024 F1 USGP at Circuit of the Americas. To capture this spending data, survey respondents were asked questions about their spending on various spending categories, such as hotel rentals, car rentals, food and beverage spending, retail shopping, entertainment spending, etc. As seen in Table 7, the total spending at the event, including indirect and induced effects, should be close to $1.134 billion. 2024 F1 USGP Estimated Total Expenditures Direct Expenditures Indirect Expenditures Induced Expenditures Total Expenditures Sales & Use* $316,015,332 $209,267,534 $294,145,720 $819,428,586 Rental Car Hotel Title 5, ABC Mixed Beverage Total $11,817,922 $67,741,426 $38,482,192 $38,567,513 $2,755,399 $22,461,933 $16,056,756 $16,125,269 $4,608,510 $36,183,886 $30,217,030 $30,335,820 $19,181,831 $126,387,246 $84,755,978 $85,028,603 $472,624,384 $266,666,892 $395,490,967 $1,134,782,244 Table 7: Estimated direct, indirect and induced expenditures used to estimate incremental tax receipt increases due to 2024 event Sources: AE, COTA, IMPLAN * - Excludes airfare expenditures 2024 F1 US Grand Prix Economic Impact: MERP | 8 Concerts 1,247 COTA Operations 9,580 X Games 2,252 MotoGP 5,692 $148.9 IN TAX IMPACTS 2.6 MILLION HOTEL STAYS FORMULA 1 TOTAL ATTENDANCE Formula 1 59,047 83,187 Full-Time Equivalent Jobs Created or Supported 1.1 Million F1 Attendees 719,191 Came from Outside of Texas 150,000 100,000 50,000 0 Questions? John.Villarreal@thecircuit.com https://circuitoftheamericas.com/
Established 1938 501 (c)(3) Non-Profit Our Mission is to grow the next generation of Texas Kids • Over 1,000 Volunteers Serve on 30 Committees • March Events: • Cowboy Breakfast – The Long Center • BBQ Austin – Travis County Expo Center • Fair & Rodeo – Travis County Expo Center • Austin’s Largest Carnival Rapid Growth (Post Pandemic) 2025: 500,730 2024: 473,030 2023: 468,111 2022: 455,758 2021: Covid 2020: Covid 2019: 289,878 2018: 275,212 Attendees • All Fifty States • District of Columbia (Washington, DC) • Territory of Puerto Rico • Over 15 Foreign Countries • 95% of 254 Counties in Texas 99,000 38,100 11,400 10,100 4,320 113,418 15 PERFORMANCES Broadcasted/streamed across Cowboy Channel’s platforms *As of May 1, 2025 Professional Rodeo • Top Ten: Professional Cowboys Rodeo Association and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association • Televised on the Cowboy Channel Economic Impact • Economic Impact Study is Outdated, we will be conducting a new study, Fall 2025
REGULAR MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD May 14, 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 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) Daniel 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 April 9, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing from Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson, regarding commission board resources and updates for commission board. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. 4. Presentation by Deron Lozano, Senior Vice President for Environment & Project Development, and Sean Barry, Vice President of Design & Construction with the Austin Transit Partnership, regarding the Austin Light Rail project. Presentation by Bryce Bencivengo, Community Affairs, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), regarding the Journey with AUS airport expansion program and its impact on economic growth and tourism. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. Discussion and possible action to set road map for 2025 Tourism Commission Meetings. Discussion and possible action on creating a potential AISD Work Group & Clean Air Work Group. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 7. 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 on alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days …
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Journey With AUS Update Austin Tourism Commission – May 14, 2025 Bryce Bencivengo Community Affairs Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) History & Growth Austin-Bergstrom History The original AUS was Robert Mueller Municipal Airport ● October 14, 1930 – May 22, 1999 Austin-Bergstrom International Airport ● Formerly Bergstrom USAF Base - Named after first Austin native killed in action during World War II ● Existed as the Del Valle Army Air Field prior to USAF AUS is owned & operated by the City of Austin ● AUS campus is 4,242 total acres ● Converted to commercial use and opened in 1999 with a $585 million budget ● Opening – 25 gates designed for 11M annual passengers ● 2019 expansion – 9 gates added to serve 15M annual passengers 2022-Beyond: Journey with AUS ● A new direction for our Airport Expansion and Development Program (AEDP) AUS Has Achieved New Record High Passenger Levels Annual Passenger Traffic (Millions) 22.1 21.8 21.1 17.3 15.8 13.9 13.6 12.4 11.9 7.1 7.5 6.6 8.1 8.7 8.8 8.2 8.7 10.7 10.0 9.1 9.4 6.5 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 25.0 20.0 15.0 10.0 5.0 0.0 AUS is the 6th Fastest Growing Airport Among U.S. Large & Medium Hub Airports % Change in Seats: Q1 ‘25 v. Q1 ‘19 70% 59% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% -10% -20% -30% 50% 45%45% 40% 36% 33% 31% 27% 26%26%25%25%24% 22%22% 20%20%19%18% 17% 14%13%13% 12%11%11%10%10% 9% 9% 9% 9% 8% 7% 7% 6% 5% 5% 5% 4% 4% 3% 3% 3% 3% 3% 1% 1% 1% 0% 0% 0% -1% -1% -3% -3% -4% -6% -7% -10% -11% U J S A N B T N O I A M S H C S U A I B P N E D L N H R U B F R O W F D S A L I O B T L C O C M W S R U D R X H P O N R A P T X A J D N I F M S T A S H A I C L S M E M L A D . g v A H M C E L C G G O A G L A C D T I P …
WORKING DOCUMENT: Tourism Commission Road Map April 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. 7. June 11, 2025 – Athletics & Tourism 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
TOURISM COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 14, MAY 2025 The TOURISM COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 14, MAY 2025, at 301 w. Second St. in Austin, Texas. Chair, Daniel Ronan called the TOURISM COMMISSION Meeting to order at 2:32 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioners Ed Bailey, Greg Chanon, Bishop Chappell, Stefani Mathis, Cristina Masters, Anna Panossian, Daniel Ronan, Christian Tschoepe, Board Members/Commissioners Absence: Commissioners Dan Webb APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the TOURISM COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING on April 9, 2025. The minutes were approved at the May 14, 2025, meeting on Commissioner Panossian motion, Commissioner Tschoepe second on a (6-0) vote. Vote was unanimous. Chair Daniel Ronan, Vice Chair Ed Bailey, Commissioners Bishop Chappell, Anna Panossian, Christian Tschoepe, and Cristina Masters. Commissioner Greg Chanon was off the dais. Commissioner Dan Webb and Stefani Mathis were absent. Commissioner Aileen Bazan has resigned. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson briefed on updates regarding commission board resources and updates for commission’s vacancy, city policy and guidelines, including the Internal Review Report deadline. DISCUSSION ITEMS variety of items 3. Deron Lozano, Senior Vice President for Environment & Project Development, and Sean Barry, Vice President of Design & Construction with the Austin Transit Partnership, presented on the Austin Light Rail project. 4. Bryce Bencivengo, Community Affairs, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), presented on the Journey with AUS airport expansion program and its impact on economic growth and tourism. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. Discussion and possible action to set road map for 2025 Tourism Commission Meeting. Discussion and possible action on creating a potential AISD Work Group. a. The motion to approve a new AISD Working Group, Increasing Tourism Collaboration AISD Sites Working Group was approved on Commissioner Masters’ motion, Commissioner Chappell’s second on a (7- 0) vote. i. Commissioners Bailey, Chanon, Chappell, Masters, Panossian, Ronan, and Tschoepe voted yes. ii. Commissioner Dan Webb and Stefani Mathis were absent. Commissioner Aileen Bazan has resigned. b. The new AISD Working Group will be called, Increasing Tourism Collaboration AISD Sites Working. c. The new AISD Working Group members are Commissioner Chappell, Masters, Panossian, and Chair Ronan WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 7. Commissioner Chappell had no new update from the Short-Term Rental Working Group, however, will follow-up with City Manager’s office and City Council. a. Commissioner Chanon states that the Hotel Occupancy Taxes (HOT) has started collecting through the platforms as of April …
1. REGULAR MEETING of the TOURISM COMMISSION BOARD April 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 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) Daniel 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 Approve the minutes of the Tourism Commission Board Regular Meeting on March 12, 2025. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. DISCUSSION ITEMS Staff briefing from Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson, regarding commission board resources and updates for commission board. Presentation by Brian Gannon, Senior Director, Visit Austin Film Commission, on the impact of the film industry on Austin tourism. Presentation by Barbara Morgan, Executive Director of the Austin Film Festival, on the impact of film and the Austin Film Festival on Austin tourism. Presentation by John Patterson, an Austin-Based Film Producer, on the local film industry and the film production ecosystem and its impact on Austin tourism. Presentation by Jeremy Striffler, Director of Real Estate, Office of Planning & Asset Management, AISD on the potential for district venues to enhance Austin tourism. Introductions and Welcome of Cristina Masters and Daniel Webb to the Tourism Commission. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. Discussion and possible action to set road map for 2025 Tourism Commission Meeting. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 10. 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 …
Austin ISD Facility Rentals 1 Agenda ● Introductions ● Overview ● Athletic Facilities ● Performing Arts Center ● Q&A 2 Introductions Jeremy Striffler Director of Real Estate Jason Glenn Executive Director, Athletics Brad Distelhorst PAC Coordinator 3 Overview ● Board Policy permits public use of school facilities by non-school groups for educational, recreational, civic, or social activities, when these activities do not conflict with school use or Board Policy. ● Campus facilities are generally available for rent throughout the year on weekdays after-school and on weekends. ● Facility rentals generate over $1.8 million annually for Austin ISD. ● All campus rental revenue goes directly to campuses to supplement their budgets. All district facility rental revenue go to Athletics and Fine Arts. 4 Overview (Cont.) ● Austin ISD uses an online rental platform to handle all requests. ● Easy to navigate and search all of our campuses, along with District-wide facilities. ● Clear instructions on how to make payments and submit required documents. 5 Athletics Facilities 6 Athletics Facilities Burger Activity Center Features a 15,000-seat football stadium with press box, locker rooms and turf field; a 5,500-seat arena for basketball, volleyball or other tournaments; a 3,000-seat baseball field with press box, lights and dugouts; and a second football field for games and events. Delco Center Featuring a versatile 5,000-seat arena and a fully equipped conference room. Whether you're planning a significant sporting event, a business meeting, or a community gathering, we have the ideal space to suit your needs. House Park House Park is one of Austin's oldest and most beloved athletic facilities, originally established in 1939. Over the decades, it has become a vibrant hub for community events and district activities, fostering a strong sense of local pride. 7 Athletics Facilities Nelson Field Boasts an impressive 8,200-seat turf football facility, making it an ideal location for both competitive games and special events. In addition, a baseball field with a seating capacity of 300 fans, perfect for enjoying thrilling games. Noack Sports Complex Our complex features state-of-the-art soccer and softball fields, designed to host everything from casual games to high-stakes tournaments. Whether you're looking for a place to practice, play, or cheer on your team, Noack Sports Complex has it all! Yellow Jacket Stadium A historic football and track facility in East Austin. The stadium served as the main facility for Anderson High School, Austin's only public high school for Black …
Austin Film Festival Barbara Morgan, CEO/Co-Founder O U R M I S S I O N Austin Film Festival furthers the art and craft of storytelling by inspiring and championing the work of writers, filmmakers, and all artists who use written and visual language to tell a story. O U R H I S T O R Y Founded in 1993 – First festival to recognize the writer’s craft as central to the filmmaking process. Known as "The Writers Festival" 32 years of fostering a creative community – Helps aspiring writers and filmmakers bridge the gap from craft to career. Supports writers through all storytelling stages – From idea generation to finding a job. A key force in Texas and the national cultural arts scene – Recognized by the industry as the premier curator of undiscovered talent and a champion for writers. "A writer's film festival, that may be the best idea ever. It's magical... It's the best film festival in the world." - Lawrence Kasdan, The Empire Strikes Back, Raiders of the Lost Ark A F F B Y T H E N U M B E R S 8 Days of films 37k+ attendance 10,000+ scripts submitted 6,000+ films submitted 182 films screened 200+ panelists 4 Days of panels 173 panels “Austin Film Festival is really about creativity, about trying to help people find their voice. You sense it. There’s a spirit of camaraderie that's palpable. And it's fun." - Ron Horward, director Apollo 13 A F F A U D I E N C E Gender 46% Women Age 10% 3% 51% Male 3% Non-Binary 31% 24% 22% 10% <17 18-24 25-34 35-49 50-64 >65 Household Income 34% 13% 8% 7% 13% 13% 12% <$20K $20-29K $30-39K $40-59K $60-79K $80-99K >$100k Education Ethnicity Hispanic - 8% Black - 14% Asian - 5% Native American - 1% Other - 2% Multi-Racial - 6% White - 64% 3% 5% 6% 50% 31% 4% Unfinished High School High School, GED Post-HS, Trade School Bachelor’s Degree Advanced Degree Doctorate, Ph. D E C O N O M I C I M P A C T $13,000,000 Economic Impact to City of Austin 5,400 Room Nights 18 Partner Hotels 16 Conference Rooms Conference Sq Ft 41,805 7 Screens 2,114 Theater Seats 9 Party Venues 64,300 Party Sq Ft P A S T A N D C U R R E N T …
WORKING DOCUMENT: Tourism Commission Road Map April 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) April 2025 – The Austin Film Industry May 2025 – Celebrating National Travel & Tourism Week June 2025 – Athletics & Tourism July 2025 – Festivals, Food & Fun 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. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
BRIAN GANNON, CFC | SR. DIRECTOR OF FILM MARKETING Austin Film Commission ● ● ● There has been production in Austin for more than 50 years. Founded in 1986 and Association of Film Commissions International (AFCI) accredited. Both staff are certified film commissioners. Part of Visit Austin. Standard for city film commission to be housed within the Destination Marketing Organization (DMO). This rate is echoed in Texas and domestically. ● Market and sell Austin as a filming destination, working to bring film, television and commercial productions to the region, which creates jobs for area professionals, generates local spending and room nights as well as promotes the destination internationally. ● Advocates and supports productions filming in Austin by offering services to help filmmakers like: permitting guidance, promoting local hiring, facilities and Austin-based vendors as well as acting as a liaison with area film locations and pushing for competitive incentives. ● Worked with over 300+ feature films, 2 dozen television series and 2,500+ commercials that have filmed locally in the last nearly 40 years. ● Develop relationships with industry decision makers, filmmakers, and studios to directly market and pitch Austin. ● Host pre-production scouts for ready-to-film film and television series to win business – touring locations with filmmakers to familiarize them with Austin. ● ● Act as the intermediate between production companies and governing bodies, but does not finance or regulate. Advocate for production throughout our region. Though all productions rely on Austin resources, many local shoots film outside the city limits within the union 30-mile zone to achieve their needed looks. ● Market Austin at industry events, film festivals, conferences, and tradeshows. ● Promote Austin’s 25+ world-class film festivals and year round film events to locals and visitors alike. Lights, Camera, Austin! ● ● ● ● ● Austin has been a production hub for since the 1970s. Our professional crew base has the depth to handle multiple productions simultaneously. Working on film, television and commercial productions of all sizes over years, Austin crews have the technical expertise to always bring productions in on time, on budget and as the director envisioned. From PA to Producer, crew up with the AFC Production Directory. Austin rental houses can supply productions with the latest industry standard equipment. Save on shipping, as local camera, grip and lighting vendors stock the tools your shows need. From dollies to cranes, trailers and honeywagons— find local industry suppliers …
TOURISM COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 9, APRIL 2025 The TOURISM COMMISSION convened in a REGULAR meeting on 9, APRIL 2025, at 301 w. Second St. in Austin, Texas. Vice Chair, Ed Bailey called the TOURISM COMMISSION Meeting to order at 2:35 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioners Ed Bailey, Greg Chanon, Bishop Chappell, Stefani Mathis, Cristina Masters, Anna Panossian, Daniel Ronan, Christian Tschoepe, and Dan Webb Board Members/Commissioners Absence: Commissioners Aileen Bazan APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the TOURISM COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING on March 12, 2025. The minutes were approved at the April 9, 2025 meeting on Commissioner Panossian motion, Commissioner Chanon’s second on a (8-0) vote. Vote was unanimous. Commissioners Vice Chair Bailey, Chanon, Chappell, Mathis, Panossian, Tschoepe , Masters, and Webb. Chair Ronan was off the dais. Commissioner Bazan was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff Liaison, Felicia Burleson briefed on updates regarding commission board resources and updates for commission’s vacancy and city policy and guidelines. DISCUSSION ITEMS variety of items 3. 4. 5. Brian Gannon, Senior Director, Visit Austin Film Commission, presented on the impact of the film industry on Austin tourism. Barbara Morgan, Executive Director of the Austin Film Festival, presented on the impact of film and the Austin Film Festival on Austin tourism. Jeremy Striffler, Director of Real Estate, Office of Planning & Asset Management, AISD along with Jason Glenn, Executive Director of Athletics, and Brad Distelhorst, Performing Arts Center Coordinator, presented on the potential for district venues to enhance Austin tourism. Introductions of new Tourism Commissioners, Cristina Masters and Dan Webb to the Tourism Commission. 6. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. a. The motion to continue the current Chair and Vice Chair occupancy remain in seats. was approved on Commissioner Panossian’s motion, Commissioner Mathis’ second on a (9-0) vote. Vote was unanimous. Commissioners Chair Ronan, Vice Chair Bailey, Chanon, Chappell, Mathis, Panossian, Tschoepe, Masters, and Webb. b. Commissioner Bazan was absent. 8. Discussion and possible action to set road map for 2025 Tourism Commission Meeting. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 9. Update from the Short-Term Rental Working Group on any new reports regarding the STR’s new focus and efforts for recommendations. a. The motion to reform the STR Working Group to retain as a monitor regarding the STR progress and City Council movements was approved on Commissioner Chanon’s motion, Commissioner Panossian’s second on a (9-0) …
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
