Title
Authorization to Issue Request for Proposals for Tourism and Hospitality Advisory Board Funds
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Tourism and Hospitality Advisory Board (THAB) funds.
Report
Summary
THAB is the City of Phoenix Board that annually seeks and reviews proposals for projects and/or programs that enhance the City's tourism and hospitality industry. The 14-member board is comprised of eight hoteliers (one from each Council district), two at-large members from hospitality-related industries, two Citywide representatives, one non-voting representative from City staff, and one non-voting member from the Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Procurement Information
With approval, the Phoenix Convention Center Department (PCCD) will conduct an RFP to select an organization to use FY 2018-19 THAB funds. The RFP will include standard terms and conditions and other necessary requirements. Responsive and responsible proposals will be evaluated by the THAB board. Respondents will be evaluated according to the following evaluation criteria:
1. Strength of Proposal - The Proposer should clearly show how it will: (a) promote the City of Phoenix as a destination; (b) attract visitors to Phoenix through conventions, trade shows, and special events; (c) promote general tourism for Phoenix; and (d) generate hotel room night bookings by visitors and/or tourists.
2. Funding Request/Scope of Work - The funding request/scope of work must clearly delineate how the funds will be used. Proposers must provide details about how proposed conventions, trade shows, special events, multiple-day events, programs, or projects will attract visitors to the City of Phoenix.
3. Proposer Qualifications and Experience - The Proposer must clearly delineate its firm's qualifications and experience with promoting tourism for a major city.
Following panel evaluation recommendation, the final award will be presented to City Council for approval prior to entering an agreement.
Contract Term
The contract term is for five years beginning approximately on or before Nov. 1, 2018, through Oct. 31, 2023. There are no extension options.
Financial Impact
The budget will not exceed $500,000 over the life of the contract. THAB is funded through the Sports Facilities Fund which is the hospitality industry's share of special excise taxes on hotel/motel lodging and rental cars.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
The Downtown, Aviation, Economy and Innovation Subcommittee recommended approval of this item by a vote of 4-0 at its June 6, 2018 meeting.
Public Outreach
With approval, PCCD will conduct a RFP to select a vendor for this contract. This process will include all standard and required advertising outreach efforts.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Assistant City Manager Milton Dohoney, Jr. and the Phoenix Convention Center Department.