TO: Members of the City Council
FROM: Mayor Angela Birney
DEPARTMENT DIRECTOR CONTACT(S):
Planning and Community Development
Carol Helland
425-556-2107
DEPARTMENT STAFF:
Planning and Community Development
Seraphie Allen
Deputy Director
Planning and Community Development
Philly Marsh
Economic Development Manager
Planning and Community Development
Jackie Lalor
Tourism Program Administrator
TITLE:
title
Authorize the Acceptance of a $100,000 Grant from the Washington Department of Commerce for Activities Related to Promoting Tourism in Advance of the 2026 World Cup Games
OVERVIEW STATEMENT:
recommendation
In support of the Council approved World Cup budget offer and work plan, staff applied and received a $100,000 grant from the Washington Department of Commerce for activities related to promoting tourism in advance of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The scope of work and deliverables support items already planned for World Cup activations including, staffing costs, marketing and public relation efforts, and district development event activations.
To qualify for the grant, staff demonstrated the negative financial impacts of the pandemic, citing a 66% decrease in the lodging tax fund during that period.
body
? Additional Background Information/Description of Proposal Attached
REQUESTED ACTION:
? Receive Information ? Provide Direction ? Approve
REQUEST RATIONALE:
* Relevant Plans/Policies:
2024 Economic Development Strategic Plan:
* Action 6C.5 Leverage large regional events, such as the World Cup to attract visitors to Redmond for economic impact.
* Action 6B.1. Foster development and branding of unique destinations that celebrate heritage, culture, and diversity, and help to retain current residents and draw new residents, visitors, and investment.
* Action 3G.2. Support Redmond's Tourism Program and the Tourism Strategic Plan to align the City's tourism efforts for economic impact.
* Action 3G.1. Continue efforts to develop and offer diverse...
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