Alan of Airstream Ventures briefed the council on an active sports‑event pipeline for 2026 and introduced a new director of operations, Josh Zenner, whose role is to separate sales from event operations so booked events run more efficiently.

Alan highlighted several confirmed and prospective events that will bring teams and out‑of‑market visitors to Clay County: a sold‑out American league event, girls flag‑football tournaments that act as qualifiers, the Black Creek Showdown, Minor League golf at Eagle Harbor Golf Club, a cross‑country invitational, multiple pickleball events, Premier Lacrosse League camps, and conversations with national series like Pro Watercross. "He's our new director of operations," Alan said, introducing Josh and noting the hire will improve event logistics and local coordination.

Board members raised venue capacity and hotel impacts. One member said the Fairgrounds "is essentially booked for almost 2 years," underscoring scheduling constraints that staff and Airstream will have to manage. Alan and the board discussed opportunities to host simultaneous events in the fairgrounds complex and to coordinate hotels so visitors stay in Clay County.

The presentation emphasized operations and community engagement: Airstream asked council members to visit big events and meet promoters to support retention of events and to help show appreciation to event directors. Alan said many events are in advanced conversations and several should move to booked status by the next meeting.

Next steps: staff and Airstream will continue booking, prioritize in‑county lodging where possible and bring confirmed bookings and operations plans back to the council in a future meeting.