Spokane Valley Hotels Launch $1.3M Assessment to Boost Tourism and Events Marketing

The Spokane Valley TPA Commission held a regular meeting on August 21, 2025, focusing on the promotion of local tourism and the economic benefits of a self-assessment program among local hotels. The commission emphasized the importance of marketing Spokane Valley and the surrounding area to attract conventions, trade shows, and sporting events, which are vital for supporting local lodging and tourism businesses.

A key point of discussion was the distinction between the TPA assessment and a tax. The 16 participating hotels in Spokane Valley have opted to self-assess, generating approximately $1.3 million annually. This funding is used to promote the region, benefiting not only hotels but also restaurants and attractions. The commission clarified that this program is a collaborative effort aimed at enhancing the local economy, countering misconceptions that it is a tax imposed on residents or visitors.

The meeting also highlighted the growth of tourism in Spokane County, with projections indicating over 10 million visitors in 2024 and a significant economic impact of $2.4 billion. While specific data for Spokane Valley was not detailed, the overall trends suggest a positive trajectory for regional tourism efforts.

In addition to discussing current marketing strategies, the commission reviewed various metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of their initiatives. This includes analyzing data from CoStar, website traffic, and social media engagement, as well as the performance of digital and print campaigns. The commission aims to refine its approach to destination marketing and sports recruitment, ensuring that Spokane Valley remains competitive in attracting events that drive economic growth.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to fostering a vibrant tourism sector in Spokane Valley, leveraging partnerships and data-driven strategies to enhance the area's appeal to visitors and event organizers alike. As the program continues to evolve, the commission anticipates further discussions on how to maximize the impact of their marketing efforts and support local businesses.