Council praises city’s 2024 convention and tourism successes, honors industry leaders

The Indianapolis City‑County Council on Feb. 3 adopted a special resolution recognizing the exceptional contributions of the city’s convention and tourism sector during 2024, citing large conventions, major sporting events and entertainment that the presenters said brought economic and cultural benefits to Indianapolis.

Councilor Maggie A. Lewis introduced the resolution acknowledging multiple partners — Visit Indy, the Capital Improvement Board (CIB), Downtown Indy and Indiana Sports Corp among others — and thanked staff and volunteers who supported major events including the NBA All‑Star-related activity, national conferences, and national entertainment tours referenced in the resolution.

Andy Mound, executive director of the Capital Improvement Board, told the council the 2024 year reaffirmed Indianapolis as an event city and credited three factors: world‑class facilities, talented staff, and coordinated public‑private partnerships. A Downtown Indy representative highlighted how downtown businesses, public‑safety agencies and public works staff work together year‑round to ensure that large events leave a positive impression for visitors.

The resolution recognizes the tourism sector’s role in supporting jobs across the county and in positioning Indianapolis as a national event destination. The council moved, seconded and passed the resolution by voice vote; the clerk recorded the motion as carried.

Quotes “Indianapolis is the best event city in the entire country,” Andy Mound said, describing cooperation among facilities, staff and the broader community.

“Downtown is their first impression of Indianapolis,” a Downtown Indy speaker said, urging continued partnership across city departments so events support downtown businesses and residents.

The council also invited representatives to upcoming events and thanked hospitality workers, volunteers and public employees for their contributions to the year’s outcomes.