PED 2020-02-03 Item 1B - Grant Application - Port of Seattle Economic Development Grant

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INFORMATIONAL MEMO Page 2 The tourism digital media program would be different from the City's current website and social media resources since this program would not include general government related information. The program would complement the marketing work by the Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority (SSRTA) and the Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce. SSRTA's website and strategy promote a three -city region with an emphasis on places to stay and holding meetings. The Chamber's website and strategy is promoting a five -city region with an emphasis on business. The proposed digital media program would promote Tukwila with an emphasis on lifestyle and local activities. There would be cross promotions and links between the three organizations. A majority of the costs associated with the creation of the digital media program will be paid with lodging tax funds (assuming approval of a future funding request). However, it is important for the digital media program to also include components focused on potential future residents and current residents seeking information on local activities and benefits of living in Tukwila. These parts of the digital marketing program would likely not be eligible for lodging tax funding and would be paid from the Port grant or the general fund economic development budget. In 2018, Airmark Apartments opened in Tukwila's Southcenter District. At the time, the managers of the apartment noted that leasing for the units was slower than expected. One factor that may have slowed lease -up is that the Southcenter District is still emerging as a neighborhood with residents. Creating a digital marketing program can help to promote and brand the area as a place to live. The following are example websites: • https://www.discoversiu.com/ • https://www.discoverburien.org • https://www.bellevuedowntown.com/ FINANCIAL IMPACT The Port grant would be additional revenue that would cover additional costs. The City's matching funds are already included in the Economic Development Division budget and the Lodging Tax budget. These funds were already planned on being expended in 2020, so there will be no net effect on the City's financial position. However, the grant was not included in the 2020 budget and so a budget adjustment for $20,930 of revenue and expenses may be necessary. Any use of lodging tax funds will require the review of the request by the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee and the City Council. RECOMMENDATION Committee approval to submit grant application. ATTACHMENTS None S1