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Zuniga, Diana From: Gipson, De'andre <De'andre.Gipson@marriott.com> Sent: Monday, June 30, 2025 3:21 PM To: eComment Subject: "In support of agenda item #30 on Consent Calendar." Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links. Dear Santa Ana City Council, Please accept this letter in support of the renewal of the Santa Ana Tourism Marketing District (SATMD). As a Santa Ana Tourism Marketing District hotelier, I have seen firsthand the positive impact Travel Santa Ana has had on the City of Santa Ana over the past four years. These accomplishments include: • Developing strategic sales efforts that support the hotels by driving increased group and leisure business. • Executing inclusive, strategic marketing efforts that promote the city's assets and uniqueness. • Developing a brand for the destination that encompasses Santa Ana's diversity. • Establishing a Marketing Advisory Group to create synergy among Santa Ana marketers. • Curating a Public Art Guide featuring more than 200 murals throughout the city. • Creating the "Santa Ana Enthusiast" ambassador program. Travel Santa Ana's strategic sales and marketing efforts continue to elevate the perception of our city, attracting visitors to our hotels, restaurants, attractions, retail businesses, and events. An estimated 90% of DMOs operate under 10-year agreements, and Travel Santa Ana should be no exception. The organization has proven invaluable in supporting hoteliers and the local tourism industry and should be allowed to continue its efforts without operational disruption. Additionally, the proposed incremental increase would allow Travel Santa Ana with the flexibility to address specific challenges—such as recovering from a downturn in tourism—or to expand marketing efforts into new or underserved markets, while adapting strategies to enhance destination competitiveness and further bolster the local economy. For these reasons, I strongly urge the Santa Ana City Council to approve the renewal of the SATMD and support the continued success of Travel Santa Ana. The organization has demonstrated its commitment to enhancing the city's visibility, economic vitality, and cultural vibrancy. With the renewal and proposed funding structure, Travel Santa Ana will be well-positioned to build on its accomplishments and further contribute to the prosperity of our community. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, De'Andre Gipson i