The Galveston Park Board presented a time‑sensitive request for a $600,000 contribution from the city’s hotel occupancy tax (HOT) reserve to join a marketing and promotional partnership tied to Houston’s role as a 2026 FIFA World Cup host region.

Park Board representatives said the sponsorship is a marketing opportunity that will put Galveston on itineraries and that the largest benefits are expected in follow‑up years as exposure converts to travel. The Park Board proposed paying $300,000 immediately and $300,000 on Jan. 1 and said sponsors would help underwrite events (viewing parties, hospitality and themed programming). The trustees also described an internal policy to restrict any sponsorship tickets for business use only.

Council asked about the fund balance (staff said the HOT reserve totaled roughly $15–16M), and staff reminded council the reserve is partially earmarked for Stewart Beach work; councilors said the reserve was an appropriate use for a one‑time, non‑recurring sponsorship and several members expressed support while asking for accountability and reporting on how funds are spent.