During the recent Sandy City Council meeting, officials from Visit Salt Lake provided a comprehensive update on the Convention Tourism Assessment (CTA) area, highlighting its significance to the local economy. The meeting featured presentations from key representatives, including Clay, the Chief Sports Officer, and Krista Parrig, the Brand and Experience Officer, who emphasized the vital role of tourism in Sandy.

Sandy City is home to eight hotels, offering over 1,000 rooms, with an impressive average occupancy rate of 70%. Last year, these hotels generated approximately $25 million in room revenue, underscoring the importance of tourism to the local economy. Visitors contribute to about 27% of all spending in Sandy, with a significant portion directed towards local businesses in food, beverage, retail, and entertainment.

The CTA initiative, which began in October 2023, was spearheaded by local hoteliers who proposed a 2% assessment on hotel room revenue. This funding is reinvested into development opportunities within Sandy, aiming to boost awareness and demand for hotel stays. Sandy is part of the South District CTA, which also includes Draper, and is designed to ensure equitable benefits for all participating hotels.

For the upcoming years, the CTA budget has been set at $7.8 million for 2024 and $8.3 million for 2025. The funds will be allocated across various initiatives, including district-wide development, regional marketing, and major event support. The goal is to enhance Sandy's profile as a tourist destination, with plans for marketing campaigns and events that showcase the community's offerings.

The meeting also touched on the success of past events, such as the Nutcracker, which highlighted Sandy's potential for attracting visitors through cultural and seasonal activities. As the city looks to the future, the CTA aims to solidify Sandy's position within the broader Salt Lake County tourism landscape, fostering growth and economic development through strategic investments in tourism.