Downtown Benicia Business Improvement District
The Problem A small city on the eastern side of the San Pablo Bay, Benicia offers small-town charm within a stone’s throw of the big city itself – San Francisco. In late 2010, the City of Benicia dedicated funds to forming an improvement district. Unlike most cities, Benicia did not have a particular district type […]
US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board: Letter to EDA
On April 23, 2021, the United States Travel and Tourism Advisory Board (TTAB) submitted a letter to the Economic Development Administration (EDA) outlining three main recommendations for how American Rescue Plan funding can be used to stimulate local economies through tourism. TTAB explains that tourism is vital for communities working to rebuild their economies: three […]
2020 District of the Year
Feather River Tourism Marketing District Plumas County, CA What a year 2020 turned out to be! None of us expected to face the trials and tribulations that last year brought us, without a doubt. But we faced them and have continued to move forward! Persistence should be the word of the year for 2020. It […]
Funding Futures: Dedicated Funding and Tax Increment Financing
In the research study “Funding Futures” released by Civitas, Miles Partnership, Tourism Economics, and an expert team of organizations and supporters, we have examined a wide range of various funding options for Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) to explore. Since the release of the report in August 2020, the “Funding Futures” team has been hosting a […]
Funding Futures: Building Reserves & Short-Term Rental Revenue
In partnership with Miles Partnership, Tourism Economics, Civitas released a new research study entitled “Funding Futures,” highlighting funding options for state and local DMOs as we navigate the industry crisis posed by COVID-19. The report not only highlighted critical areas of concern, but also offered ideas and opportunities for DMOs to “build back better,” encouraging […]
Stepping Into the Future: Dana Point’s Transformative Decision
“Modernization” can be a daunting word, but not for Visit Dana Point Executive Director, Jonny Westom. Back in 2009, Visit Dana Point began as a Tourism Business Improvement District (“TBID”) formed under California’s Parking and Business Improvement Area Law of 1989 (“89 Act”). The destination envisioned a high end, meetings focused, sales and marketing plan […]
Monterey County CVB: Conquering Challenges for a Stronger District
Monterey County offers an iconic California experience. From the breathtaking coastline of Big Sur and fresh seafood on Cannery Row in Monterey, to world renowned golf courses in Carmel-by-the-Sea and handcrafted wines in Carmel Valley – Monterey County has something special for everyone who visits. The Monterey Convention and Visitors Bureau (“MCCVB”) has an abundance […]
Stability & Sufficiency: Upgrading Your 89 Act District
When Business Improvement District leaders approach Civitas to discuss their funding mechanism, the words we use most are “stability” and “sufficiency”. Does your organization have a stable budget? How reliable are your funding streams? Can those funds be diverted, or not renewed by vote of the City Council or Board of Supervisors? Does your organization […]
Modesto: The Restored CVB Ushers in a Thriving Tourism Scene
“More people, businesses and organizations are choosing Modesto to host their events in recent years, so let’s continue showing them what our great city is all about!” observed Thomas Reeves, Community & Media Relations Officer at the City Manager’s Office, in July 2019. At the heart of the city’s efforts to promote a flourishing economy […]
Four Tourism Industry Companies Partner for Success
We are thrilled to officially announce our new partnership with SearchWide Global, CFO by Design, and Fired-Up Culture! It is no secret that these companies are well respected in the tourism industry. This new collaboration will only enhance our ability to better serve our clients and we can’t wait to see what the future holds! […]
