Garden Grove City Council approves tourist district budget and marketing plans

The Garden Grove City Council convened on May 13, 2025, to discuss significant developments in the city’s tourism strategy, focusing on the Tourist Improvement District (TID) and its impact on local businesses and community events.

A key highlight of the meeting was the public hearing regarding the proposed annual assessment for the TID, which aims to enhance marketing efforts and promote local attractions to boost tourism. The council approved the advisory board report on April 22, 2025, setting the stage for the assessment that will fund various initiatives in the upcoming fiscal year.

The TID is divided into two tiers: Tier 1 includes nine hotels north of Lampson Avenue, contributing 2.5% of their revenues, while Tier 2 consists of the Great Wolf Lodge, which contributes 0.5%. This structure has proven beneficial, generating approximately $28 million in total revenue for the city last year, which supports ongoing tourism initiatives.

The budget for the Garden Grove Tourism Permit District for the fiscal year 2025-2026 is projected at $848,000, including a carryover from the previous year. The budget allocates funds for essential services such as private security and maintenance of Harbor Boulevard, as well as a new website aimed at enhancing the online presence of the Grove District.

Visit Anaheim representatives presented their marketing achievements, reporting that their efforts resulted in over $1.9 billion in economic impact from visitor spending. They highlighted a successful year with a total visitor count of 17 million, which significantly boosted lodging revenues. The marketing strategy included targeted campaigns that effectively reached diverse audiences, including families and food enthusiasts.

The meeting also emphasized the importance of community events, such as the upcoming Foods of Garden Grove festival, which received a $27,000 promotional boost from the TID. This event, along with others, is expected to draw visitors and further stimulate local economic growth.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Garden Grove City Council meeting underscored a commitment to enhancing tourism through strategic marketing and community engagement, aiming to create a vibrant environment that benefits both residents and visitors alike. The council's decisions reflect a proactive approach to fostering economic development and promoting the unique attractions of Garden Grove.