In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant financial updates regarding the city’s tourism promotion and upcoming events. A proposed ordinance to amend the fiscal year 2023-24 budget was introduced, seeking supplemental appropriations of $138,000 from revenues generated within the convention district. This funding is intended to support Visit Tulsa, the city’s tourism promotion program, which has exceeded revenue projections consistently over the past two years.
Renee, a representative from Visit Tulsa, highlighted the organization’s successful fundraising efforts and its expanded role in planning the upcoming \"Big Damn Party,\" a major event coinciding with the opening of Zinc Lake. Scheduled for Labor Day weekend, the celebration will feature a variety of activities, including concerts with 20 local bands, family-friendly events, and the unveiling of the largest inflatable rubber duck in the world. The event aims to attract tourists and boost local economic activity.
City officials expressed strong support for the funding request, emphasizing the collaborative efforts between Visit Tulsa, the mayor's office, and other local organizations to ensure the event's success. The meeting also included discussions on the adoption of the annual budget for fiscal year 2024 and the capital improvement plan for 2025-2029, with further reviews scheduled for the following week.
Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing tourism and community engagement through well-planned events and strategic financial management.