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, …
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 …
