HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Committees - Lodging Tax Advisory Committee - 08/17/2006 ��,Kc W ASNINOTON LODGING TAX ADVISORY COMMITTEE
August 17, 2006
Committee Members Present: Tim Clark, Jacquie Alexander, Vickie Molzer, Andy Wangstad,
and Greg Haffner. Others Present: Ben Wolters, Bob Nachlinger, Robin Hasbrouck, and
Katherine Kertzman.
The meeting was called to order by Clark at 2:00 p.m. and introductions were made.
Economic Development Director. Ben Wolters introduced himself and informed the Board
of his background and experience in economic development.
Project Update. Wolters noted that the market study on the Events Center has been
completed and that a recommendation will be made to the City Council on October 17.
He said new retail stores will be opening at Kent Station by the end of October and that a grand
opening event is being planned. He noted that although the Cancer Treatment Centers of
America are continuing their appeal process, they are also exploring other options including
buying in to a hospital in North Bend.
Financial Report. Nachlinger distributed the budget analysis as of June 30, 2006, and noted
that it indicates the expected revenue for next year is $243,085 and the expenditures are
$140,000, which would leave a balance of $103,085.
Kertzman provided information on lodging and said she expects that revenues next year will be
the highest yet.
A discussion was then held regarding investigating winter sports possibilities, since June
through September are already busy months.
Kent Lodging Association Update. Hasbrouck reported on the status of the website,
advertising, the kiosk, the use of Sound Transit and Metro, and the visitor's map. She noted
that early next year Metro will begin a new route from the airport to Auburn, Kent, Renton and
back to the airport, which will provide advertising opportunities. She stated that $5,000 is still
needed for the maps and that Titan Advertising is working on sales. Kertzman volunteered to
contact Pacific Raceways in regard to partnering with them.
Seattle Southside Visitor Services Update. Kertzman gave an update on their projects,
including the online web reservation program, Tillicum Village events, tournaments, public
relations efforts, and budget planning. She noted that the Vacation Planner will be updated
next year, and that Kent will be required to pay 10% of that cost, not to exceed $10,000.
Vacant Board Positions. Wolters stated that Scott Brown of the Best Western is interested in
serving on this Board and suggested that he be invited to do so. He also mentioned Ryan
ffrrew{e-of Town Place Suites and Freddy Trotter of Extended Stay America as possibilities, and
it was agreed that more exploration will be done.
Lodging Tax Advisory Board August 17, 2006
Page Two
Potential Issues for 2007 Budget. Budget issues mentioned were the Dragon Boat Races,
update of the SSVS Vacation Planner, the visitors map, and advertising expenses.
Approval of Minutes. Wangstad moved to approve the minutes of the meeting of May 18,
2006. Haffner seconded and the motion carried.
Next Meeting Date. Clark suggested meeting at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 28, and
all agreed.
Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 3:30 p.m.
Brenda Jacober, CMC
City Clerk