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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final March 5, 2024 Sports Tourism (organization) had approached the Tourist Development Council (TDC), requesting an additional $220,000 in funding after unexpected opportunities had come about. This would allow the TDC to make the most of the tourism dollars allocated for "heads to beds". Rick Hatcher, President of Play Treasure Coast Sports Tourism, presented a PowerPoint highlighting upcoming events sponsored by the organization, projected room nights, and estimated economic impact. Mr. Hatcher requested at the last TDC meeting to consider hosting several events in Indian River County. He stated there were two unexpected events. First, the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) tournament; the request had come after organizations budget had already been set and approved. It would feature 150 top high school players from around the country. The AJGA had scheduled the tournament a day earlier than usual, followed by the Florida State Golf Association (FSGA) tournament. The second event was the General Tire Team Series Championship, where the top 30 anglers from across the country would compete in a made -for -television event. Mr. Hatcher responded to Commissioner Moss's inquiry that the organization did not have reserve funds from which to draw and did not actually hold the money. Chairman Adams clarified to Commissioner Moss that the Treasure Coast Sports grant money was used to bid for sporting events, which brought economic benefits to the County. The TDC had a program for the events they bid on, such as the shooting event, which present a mid -year opportunities due to the area's excellent resources. Vice Chairman Flescher stated the funds come from tourism and are only used when necessary. Approval on this Item was needed to bid on the two events, and if successful, the funds would be available. If not, they would be returned to the contingency fund. Deputy County Administrator Mike Zito stated the fishing event was unique and deserved special consideration. Other events generate venue fees for County facilities such as the golf course, pools, and park system. These events were vetted through the budget office, reviewed, and approved by the County Administrator's office. The system for reimbursing these events was tightly managed and successful. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Flescher, seconded by Commissioner Earman, to approve the Tourist Development Council's request to allocate $20,000 of funds to Play Treasure Coast Sports Tourism. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 5 - Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman Flescher, Commissioner Earman, Commissioner Moss, and Commissioner Loar Indian River County Florida Page 19