Lawrence Convention & Visitors Bureau Advisory Board

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Attending Board Members:, Brad Kemp, Constance Wolfe, Derek Felch, Jim Adams, Jane Pennington, Nancy Longhurst, Jeanine Hetrick, Karen Christilles & Lisa Patterson

Attending Staff:  Judy Billings, Anne Dillon, Susan Henderson, Bob Sanner, Debbie White & David Longhurst

Not attending: Bob Schumm, David Johnston & John Schilling

Derek Felch called the meeting to order and moved approval of the minutes as presented.  It was seconded and the motion carried.

Billings began the meeting with an introduction of new CVB team member, Anne Buhler Dillon who will be replacing Kate Eichten as the Convention Marketing Manager.

Financials

Billings then reported that bed tax collections are doing well, but as the CVB has experienced in the past, yearend numbers may not keep pace.  Staff will watch collections closely and adjust the budget as needed. 

Old Business

Billings reported that she and selected members of CVB Board had crafted the CVB Advisory Board by-laws. These by-laws were created because previously the CVB Advisory Board had operated under the Chamber’s by-laws.

Billings reported on the progress of Guidelines for using the Bed Tax Reserve Fund. Billings noted that a memorandum had been sent to Deanell Reece Tacha, Chair of the DMI Board outlining proposed guidelines for the use of reserve funds set aside by the City. The memorandum outlined that recommended guidelines should include requests that generate additional bed tax and sales tax for the community, enhance the character or reputation of Lawrence, attract additional new events and demonstrate a measurable benefit for the community. There was discussion among Board members about the guidelines as they pertain to profit versus non-profit organizations.

Staff Updates

Susan Henderson

Henderson reported on the Kansas Tourism Initiative and the interim committee hearing that she had just attended. After much discussion, the interim committee voted not to endorse the KTI legislation citing budget concerns and a reluctance to affirm any bill that would negatively impact the state's general fund potential in any way.  Several committee members expressed their support for the industry and their regret that they couldn't support the KTI at this time due to fiscal concerns.  TIAK and other KTI industry partners will begin working to determine the most effective way to introduce the legislation once the 2009 session begins and Henderson will have an update in February.

Bob Sanner

Sanner reported on the various sporting events he is working on. He shared with the board the Convention Bureau’s work with KU Athletics to possibly organize a “Street Vault” on the Thursday before the KU Relays. The Street Vault would take place in downtown Lawrence and involve 12 Olympian pole vaulters. Sanner also reported that he is working with USSSA to bring other youth tournaments to Lawrence. Sanner concluded by sharing information about a Pro/Amateur cycling event scheduled for the July Fourth weekend.

Meeting Adjourned

Next Meeting scheduled for a time and place to be determined.