Okaloosa County BOCC — November 20, 2014 — Minutes — reading text

Rice, Owen, Windes, Peterson a. Special Events Funding Policy Revision (Charlotte Dunworth) Ms. Dunworth explained the purpose of the revisions and each of the three funding tiers. The policy has been forwarded to County Finance and Purchasing for their input. TDC concurrence on the direction of new policy, point-based system, the tiers, and further review is requested. Mr. Owen expressed concern about 5,000 room night minimum for tier 3, as well as that the funding level may not be sufficient to go after a really big name. Mr. Owen would like to see a calculation of the bed night figure, and how the payback comes out. Mr. Owen stated that other destinations require attendance at a workshop to ensure mistakes are not made during the process. Staff is working on an internal procedure to assist event applicants and provide them with the information they need to be successful and remain in compliance. Discussion ensued on whether there should be a cap on tier 3. TDC consensus to include a fourth tier over $50K with a three-night, 5,000 room night minimum. Mr. Guidry expressed concern over not knowing what the input of the other County departments may be and stated a preference for seeing the final policy in its entirety before presentation to County Commission. Recommend that the Local Event Marketing Policy go to the County Commission if there aren’t any substantial changes. RESULT: MOTION APPROVED MOVER: Owen SECONDER: Rice AYES: Owen, Rigdon, Windes, Rice, Peterson NAYES: Guidry Public Comments Related to Current Agenda No public comment. VIII. Next TDC Meeting (Dale Peterson) a. Thursday, January 22, 2015 2:00 p.m. Emerald Coast Convention Center. Okaloosa County Tourist Development Department Page 5 of 6 November 20, 2014  IX. Public Comment (3 minutes each) a. Willie Farrell offered a diversity request for TDC meetings beginning January 2015. He asked for the opportunity to mention events and contributions of people of color at all TDC meetings. The Chairman indicated that Mr. Farrell may certainly make those comments and notifications at the meetings. b. Thanks to April Sarver who is leaving the staff, for her excellent sales work. c. Shane Moody of the Destin Chamber of Commerce offered thanks to the TDC for its change in marketing income criteria and the Fishing Show. X. Adjourn XI. Meeting adjourned at 3:15 p.m. by Chairman Peterson. APPROVED: APPROVED: By: By: Name: Dale E. Peterson Name: Ed Schroeder Title: Chairman Title: Director, Tourist Development Dept. Date: Date: Okaloosa County Tourist Development Department Page 6 of 6 November 20, 2014