World Heritage Office expects fewer international chef exchanges next year; local programming to continue

Colleen Swain, director of the World Heritage Office, told council the office expects a decline in Creative City of Gastronomy presentations and chef exchanges in FY 2026 as she rotates off a coordinating role for the international network.

Swain said the performance measure that tracks presentations, chef exchanges and related events is composed of local, national and international activity. She said increased invitations and interaction during her term as coordinator had increased international activity, and that activity may decline when she steps down. The office expects to expand local community exchanges and use virtual programming to maintain engagement.

Freddy Martinez noted the World Heritage Office's proposed FY 2026 budget totals $23.2 million and funds 14 positions; staff said the budget supports operations for the recently opened World Heritage Center and programs at Mission Marquee Plaza and the Spanish Governor's Palace. Councilmembers urged staff to seek ways to sustain or replace international activity, including more virtual programming and partnerships to maintain tourism and cultural benefits.

Colleen Swain and other staff said the Creative City of Gastronomy program is not ending; Metro Health will reduce direct assistance but will continue to review menus and coordinate the healthy‑menu element. The World Heritage Office said it has eight locally designated restaurants in the gastronomy program and plans to explore virtual programming and local partnerships to continue activity.

Councilmembers asked staff to return with options and documentation about how the office could sustain or grow gastronomy programming and preserve tourism value.