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Council accepts $222,500 international tourism grant for convention bureau
Summary
The Springfield City Council voted unanimously to accept a $222,500 international tourism grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The Springfield City Council on Jan. 7 voted 9-0 to accept and appropriate a $222,500 international tourism grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) for the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The ordinance, numbered 2024-539, authorizes execution of a supplemental agreement (NOSA ID 1607-54990) covering the period July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, for international travel and advertising related to the city's tourism efforts.
Scott, a staff member who spoke during the debate, said, "This is our annual international grant through DCO. This pays for our international travel and international advertising. ... It's a match grant and we use salaries to match the grant." He told the council the award requires no additional city expenditures beyond existing salary match arrangements.
Aldermen had requested clarity on whether the grant was a one-time award; Scott replied the DCEO program is offered annually and the city applies when it is available. The ordinance passed with nine votes in favor and no dissent.
Why it matters: The grant funds will underwrite international marketing and participation in sales missions that city tourism staff undertake with the Illinois Office of Tourism. Tourism promotion affects local hotels, restaurants and event venues that rely on out-of-market visitors.
Votes at a glance: Ordinance 2024-539 — Passes 9-0. Amount: $222,500. Funding source: DCEO international tourism grant (NOSA ID 1607-54990).
