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Franklin County OKs $3.525M agreement to promote tourism and sports events
Summary
The board approved a $3.525 million 2026 agreement with Experience Columbus to market conventions, leisure and sports tourism; county and tourism leaders emphasized visitor spending, job support and ROI from events.
The Franklin County Board of Commissioners voted May 5 to authorize a $3.525 million agreement with Experience Columbus to market the county as a convention and tourism destination for 2026.
Harrison Zeltzer, economic development and planning administrator, said the agreement will support integrated convention sales, leisure tourism marketing and services for sports events, and will be processed through the county’s UniGrants system. "This term will be from January 1 to 12/31/2026," Zeltzer said.
Brian Ross, president and CEO of Experience Columbus, told the board the tourism industry drives significant economic activity in the region. "For every dollar invested in Experience Columbus, $14 goes back to the community," Ross said, adding that visitors generate roughly $8.2 billion in annual spending and support more than 82,000 jobs in Franklin County.
Linda Logan, CEO and president of the Greater Columbus Sports Commission, described the region’s recent sports tourism successes, including hosting major events that bring national attention and visitor dollars. County officials said the investment is intended to attract conventions, trade shows and sporting events that increase hotel stays, restaurant business and sales‑tax revenue.
The resolution authorizes the county administrator to execute the agreement. Commissioners moved and seconded the measure and voted to adopt Resolution 2 76 26 at the session.
