HomeMy WebLinkAboutCommittee of the Whole - 08 Jan 2024 - Agenda - Pdf
CITY OF RENTON
AGENDA - Committee of the Whole Meeting
6:00 PM - Monday, January 8, 2024
7th Floor Council Chambers/Videoconference
1. ALLOCATION OF LODGING TAX FUNDING FOR 2024
a) AB - 3471 Community & Economic Development Department submits the 2024 Lodging
Tax Advisory Committee allocation of funding recommendation, in the amount of
$447,500, and requests authorization to execute contracts with the successful applicants
for the implementation of proposed marketing initiatives.
If you would like to attend this week's meeting remotely, you can do so by going to
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86753290028?pwd=M2pOc09HWWNrY05uVnlIWnpGS1E4UT09
Zoom Meeting ID: 867 5329 0028, Passcode: 881839
You can call through Zoom at (253) 215-8782 and use the Meeting ID.
AB - 3471
City Council Regular Meeting - 11 Dec 2023
SUBJECT/TITLE: Allocation of Lodging Tax Funding for 2024
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Refer to Committee of the Whole
DEPARTMENT: Community & Economic Development Department
STAFF CONTACT: Gina Estep, Economic Development Director
EXT.: (206) 305-3615
FISCAL IMPACT SUMMARY:
Expenditure Required: $447,500
SUMMARY OF ACTION:
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee convened in August to endorse and establish a timeline for the
application process. The application deadline was set for October 20, 2023, resulting in the receipt of twenty-
one applications, collectively seeking $1,009,500 in funding.
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee proposes that Renton City Council approve 2024 expenditures from the
Lodging Tax Fund as follows:
AmPowering - Global Women Festival: $15,000
AmPowering - North America Fashion Week: $15,000
AmPowering - Festival of Joy with Lights & Dandiya: $15,000
Black Owned Business Excellence - Professional Women of Color Network Retreat: $10,000
City of Renton - 2024 Renton Farmers Market: $5,000
City of Renton - Renton River Days: $10,000
City of Renton - Renton's 2024 Winter Lights & Outdoor Décor: $10,000
City of Renton - Renton Community Marketing Campaign: $150,000
Emerald Dynasty Entertainment – Polynesian Fest 2024: $40,000
Highschool.gg - Renton City Retro: $25,000
House of Kala - Rising Stars of Melody & Movement: $5,000
Northwest Entertainment Alliance - Kingcon NW 2024: $5,000
Randall Morris Foundation - Randall Morris Foundation: $25,000
Renton Chamber of Commerce Renton Visitors Center: $65,000
Renton Downtown Partnership Experience Renton: $25,000
Renton King county Justice Alliance - Black History Month: $5,000
Renton King County Justice Alliance - Juneteenth Festival Weekend: $5,000
Return to Renton Benefit Car Show - Return To Renton Benefit Car Show: $5,000
Sadhana & Voice of Planet - Rabindra Utsab 2024: $5,000
WA Black Owned Business Excellence - BOBE Annual Business Symposium: $7,500
Total Recommendation: $447,500
EXHIBITS:
AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
A. Issue Paper_2024 LTAC Allocations
B. 2024 LTAC Applicant Summary
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize the allocations for the 2024 Lodging Tax Fund, following the recommendations of the Lodging Tax
Advisory Committee, and grant authorization to the Mayor and City Clerk to execute contracts with successful
applicants for the implementation of proposed additional marketing initiatives.
AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Grant Applicant Event NameContact Information Date of Event (beginning date) Project Name Summary of Project or EventAmount Requested Amount Recommended1 AmPowering Menka Soni, President Saturday, December 7, 2024 Global Women FestivalThe Global Women Festival, organized by the nonprofit organization AmPowering, has had a remarkable 11‐year history of celebrating and empowering women. This event, which includes an international beauty pageant, trade show, and various performances, has recognized over 500 outstanding women and placed the City of Renton on the international map. While it has provided valuable support to small businesses, created job opportunities, and attracted celebrities and dignitaries, rising expenses pose challenges to its sustainability. The organizers seek financial support to ensure the continued success and expansion of this event, aligning with their mission to empower women worldwide. Your partnership can help preserve this legacy and empower more women globally. Thank you for considering their request for support.$30,000 $15,0002 AmPowering Menka Soni, President Saturday, September 14, 2024 North America Fashion WeekNorth America Fashion Week (NAFW), a product of collaborative community efforts, has become a renowned Inclusive Fashion Event organized by nonprofit AmPowering. Beyond its role in fashion, NAFW serves as a charity event with a profound humanitarian purpose, fostering inclusivity and diversity. The event has created jobs, promoted Renton's tourism, and reached a substantial social media audience. With a commitment to equity, NAFW has supported small businesses and celebrated diversity, earning accolades and recognition. However, rising expenses due to inflation require additional financial support to ensure NAFW's continued growth and success in the international fashion scene. Your support is crucial.$40,000 $15,0003 AmPowering Menka Soni, President Saturday, October 19, 2024Festival of Joy with Lights & DandiyaIn 2023, a groundbreaking initiative combined the popular Diwali and Dandiya festivals into one grand event at the Seattle Exhibition Hall, drawing over 3000 attendees and sparking a desire for it to become an annual tradition. The organizers plan to bring this extraordinary event to Renton, aiming to make it even bigger and showcase the city's cultural vibrancy, boosting tourism, and media attention. The event featured a celebrity band from India and attracted notable figures. It promises to create jobs, boost the hospitality sector, and position Renton as a compelling tourist destination, all while preserving cultural heritage. The event is not just a remarkable cultural experience but a unifying family event, garnering demand to continue it in Renton in 2024. The organizers look forward to making Diwali and Dandiya a cherished and enduring tradition with the support ofgrant funding.$30,000 $15,0004 City of Renton Carrie Olson Tuesday, June 4, 2024 2024 Renton Farmers MarketThe 2024 Renton Farmers Market (RFM) is set to run every Tuesday from June 4th to September 24th, from 3 ‐ 7 pm. RFM features over 60 vendors offering locally grown or prepared goods, from fruits, vegetables, and flowers to artisan goods, coffee, and ready‐to‐eat foods. The market also provides live entertainment, cooking demos, gardening advice, and community information. With 23 years in operation, RFM is a staple and premier event in Renton.$10,000 $5,0005 City of Renton Tom Puthoff, Recreation Supervisor Friday, July 26, 2024 Renton River Days Renton River Days (RRDs) is a vibrant community festival held at various locations, celebrating Renton's heritage, culture, quality of life, and diversity. This family‐oriented event offers a plethora of activities, from parades and entertainment to food, craft beer, and wine gardens, as well as all‐ages fun and athletic events. RRDs also includes community‐driven sanctioned events and features partnerships with organizations like the Renton Chamber of Commerce. Its marketing and tourism strategies encompass social media promotion, a mobile‐friendly website, media partnerships, and outreach to large employers and the Renton School District. The estimated attendance has grown to 30,000, making it a multi‐day celebration that brings the community together.$30,000 $10,0006 City of Renton Sonja Mejlaender, Community Events CoordinatorSaturday, November 16, 2024 Renton's 2024 Winter Lights & Outdoor DecorThe 2024 Winter Lights & Outdoor Décor in Renton will illuminate multiple locations, featuring over 200,000 lights. It aims to draw 15,000+ visitors, strengthen Renton's position as a seasonal destination, and offer unique experiences. Gene Coulon Memorial Park's iconic display will include an opening ceremony and special events, while Piazza Park will kick off the holiday season with a tree lighting ceremony. Downtown Renton will also see various light displays and potential new features. These installations will be extended through February 2025 to attract tourists and visitors during the winter season. Marketing efforts include social media promotion, a mobile‐friendly website, media partnerships, and incentives for overnight guests offered by local hoteliers. Event marketing materials will be provided to hotels for guest information.$35,000 $10,0007 City of Renton Economic Development DivisionGina Estep, Economic Development Director Monday, January 1, 2024 Renton Community Marketing CampaignThe proposal seeks lodging tax funding for a strategic initiative in Renton with three main goals: enhancing economic vitality, positioning Renton as a prime tourism and business travel destination, and improving the city's regional image. Through collaboration with Pyramid Communications and Renton Community Marketing Campaign partners, a comprehensive three‐year campaign strategy has been developed to connect Renton with diverse audiences, highlighting its vibrancy, cultural diversity, and aerospace significance to establish it as a top‐tier destination. While initial costs are higher due to launch‐related activities, subsequent years will see cost reductions. The support is needed for two key phases: Phase 1 for building the campaign foundation, including rebranding and website development, and Phase 2 for effective communication strategies conveying Renton's unique appeal through creative assets and media strategies.$200,000 $150,0002024 LTAC Applicant SummaryAGENDA ITEM #1. a)
8 Emerald Dynasty Entertainment Angela Mose / Jesse Koria Friday, July 19, 2024 Renton MultiCultural Festival ‐ PolyFest 2024The event initially began in Renton during the Aloha Friday festivities organized by the Renton Chamber of Commerce. Subsequently, the Outlet Collection Seattle (Auburn Supermall) hosted the event on their property for six years, attracting increased attendance. The goal now is to return the festival to Renton in 2024, leveraging the success and reputation of past Poly‐Fests to align, build upon, and expand the vision of the City of Renton Multi‐Cultural Festival.$54,500 $40,0009 Evergreen Tabletop Crispolo Schlemmer / President Saturday, June 1, 2024 Evergreen Tabletop ExpoA two‐day tabletop gaming event with a focus on educating attendees about game design, storytelling, and art, all while providing a fun environment for family and friends. The event will feature speakers, tournaments, contests, role‐playing games, and open tabletop gaming sessions throughout the two‐day period.$11,000 $010 Highschool.gg President Saturday, May 18, 2024 Renton City Retro The mission is to create a lively and nostalgic retro gaming experience in Renton, transforming it into a gaming destination known for its good food, beer, and video gaming. The event aims to bring together a diverse community of gamers, collectors, and enthusiasts who share a passion for classic video games and arcade machines. The focus is on providing an inclusive environment for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy retro gaming through various activities like classic console games, vintage arcade cabinets, and tournaments. The ultimate goal is to promote social interaction, connections, and friendships through gaming, inspiring a new generation of gamers to appreciate classic video games.$50,000 $25,00011 House of Kala Anu Vadari, Director Friday, June 7, 2024 Rising Stars of Melody and Movement ‐ Indian Music and Dance FestivalAn Indian Classical Music and Dance festival spanning 2‐3 days celebrates the Trinity of Carnatic music, known fortheir spiritually rich compositions. The festival will feature world‐renowned artists from India, offering auditions and workshops for aspiring youth aged 12 and above across the USA. The top candidates will perform in a showcase and receive the "Rising Star" title. The grand finale includes a theater‐style Indian Classical Dance ballet, featuring esteemed senior artists from India and other U.S. states, supported by local talents. Dancers will be selected through auditions, focusing on precision, rhythmic presentation, and facial expressions, and will uphold the tradition of classical dance.$25,000 $5,00012 Northwest Entertainment AllianceBrian Morris Friday, October 18, 2024 Kingcon NW 2024 Kingcon NW, a prominent comicon festival, returns to downtown Renton, focusing on family‐friendliness, community engagement, creativity, gaming, and science. The event aims to provide a wholesome experience for all, including students, seniors, the military, and those with special needs. It emphasizes the arts, offering learning and exhibition opportunities for local and regional artists. Furthermore, Kingcon NW seeks to boost the downtown area's economy by attracting customers before, during, and after the event, contributing to Renton's overall economic growth.$15,000 $5,00013 Professional Women of Color Network (Fiscal Sponsor: Black Owned Business Excellence)Meko Lawson, CEO/Founder Friday, December 13, 2024 Professional Women of Color Network Retreat: Women of Color Wellbeing, Wealth & WorthThe "Women of Color Wellbeing, Worth and Wealth Retreat" is an annual multi‐day event that empowers, educates, and supports women of color in their personal and professional journeys. With a focus on self‐worth, financial and personal wellbeing, the retreat offers a safe and inclusive space for attendees to rejuvenate and connect.$20,000 $10,00014 Randall Morris Foundation for Youth & FamiliesSallye Soltner, Development Coordinator Sunday, September 8, 2024 Randall Morris Foundation LTAC Grant Request 2024The Randall Morris Foundation will host its 18th Annual Randall Morris Celebrity Gala/Auction at the Hyatt Regency Lake Washington on Sept. 8th, with the Celebrity Golf invitational taking place on September 9th at the Fairwood Golf and Country Club in Renton, Washington. The event attracts many celebrities and guests from out of town, providing a weekend of activities. In addition to supporting the Renton community, the event benefits various local businesses, including accommodations, restaurants, catering services, transportation, and advertising. It contributes to the local economy by bringing visitors to Renton for an extended period. The Randall Morris Foundation for Youth and Families focuses on supporting youth and families by offering financial aid and scholarships, reflecting its commitment to giving back to the community.$79,000 $25,00015 Renton Chamber of Commerce Diane Dobson Monday, January 1, 2024 Renton Visitors CenterThis multifaceted project aims to strengthen tourism in Renton through three primary components. It includes maintaining the operations of the Renton Visitors Center, covering 50% of its basic operational expenses. Additionally, the project focuses on enhancing Renton's online presence as a tourist destination, offering up‐to‐date information on local attractions and accommodations. It involves a Request for Proposals (RFP) process to attract diverse tourism‐promoting events and hotel stays, thereby contributing to the economic growth of Renton.$125,000 $65,00016 Renton Downtown Partnership Josh Shulkind, Executive Director Friday, September 6, 2024 Experience Renton The "Experience Renton" project aims to utilize lodging tax funding to create an engaging event promoting tourism in Renton, targeting a 50‐mile radius and beyond. The event will feature diverse culinary offerings, pop‐up shops, a concert, and a food truck festival, with partnership agreements for shuttle services to participating hotels and discount cards. Collaboration with a marketing firm will help reach potential attendees, focusing on a 50‐200 mile radius. The proposal suggests allocating $37,500 for marketing efforts.$75,000 $25,00017 Renton King county Justice Alliance Fancy Vargas & Dr Linda Smith Friday, February 2, 2024 Black History Month The Renton Black History Month Festival is a weekend‐long event that celebrates the city's Black history while showcasing present‐day Black‐owned businesses and community leaders. The festivities commence on Friday with a Disco/Funk Ball, recognizing Black community leaders and activists and highlighting the significance of Disco and Funk in Black music history. Saturday features a Black art exhibit, with local Black artists participating ina panel discussion about contemporary Black culture. The weekend culminates in a "family reunion" brunch event on Sunday, fostering outreach, community connection, and communal engagement.$35,000 $5,00018 Renton King County Justice Alliance Dr Linda Smith & Fancy Vargas Friday, June 14, 2024 Juneteenth Festival Weekend Juneteenth Festival a two day event that celebrate and uplift the black community. Friday we will be a yatch cruise party for community leaders and organizers.$75,000 $5,00019 Return to Renton Benefit Car ShowJohanna Montgomery ‐ Treasurer Saturday, July 6, 2024 Return To Renton Benefit Car ShowThe annual car show in downtown Renton, held every second Sunday of July, draws 300‐400 cars and a minimum of 3,000 spectators.$30,000 $5,000
AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
20 Sadhana & Voice of Planet Piyali Biswas, Founder of Sadhana & Vasudha Sharma, Founder of Voice of PlanetSaturday, May 11, 2024 Rabindra Utsab 2024, "Where the mind is without fear"Rabindranath Tagore, an eminent Indian polymath, was the first non‐European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913, renowned for his contributions as a poet, writer, composer, and more. In 2023, a Tagore festival was initiated in the greater Seattle region, transcending cultural boundaries. Over two days in Renton Bellevue, the festival featured a diverse program with local, out‐of‐state, and international artists, along with youth dance, art exhibitions, and performances. This collaborative effort, led by organizations like Sadhana and Voice of Planet, garnered extensive community support. Plans for 2024 involve expanding the festival to three days, with participation from more talented artists and organizations, aiming to celebrate Tagore's birthday in May. The inaugural event's success can be gauged through media reviews and video snippets available at the provided links. For more information, visit www.sadhanaworld.org and https://thevoiceofplanet.org/.$20,000 $5,00021 WA Black Owned Business ExcellenceMeko Lawson, BOBE Board Member Friday, February 2, 2024 BOBE Annual Business SymposiumThe Fourth Annual BOBE Symposium is a project that fulfills essential community needs and aligns with the goals of lodging tax initiatives. Its inclusive nature, educational aspects, grant opportunities, and collaborative approach position it as a promising candidate for lodging tax advisors' support. Backing this project can lead to a strategic investment of lodging tax funds in local business development, contributing to economic growth and community welfare.$20,000 $7,500Total$1,009,500 $447,500
AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY &
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
M E M O R A N D U M
DATE: November 20, 2023
TO: Valerie O’Halloran, Council President
Members of Renton City Council
CC: Armondo Pavone, Mayor
FROM: Vanessa Dolbee, CED Interim Administrator (x7314)
STAFF CONTACT: Jessie Kotarski (x7271)
SUBJECT: Allocation of Lodging Tax Funding for 2024
ISSUE
The question at hand is whether to allocate Lodging Tax funds to applicants for supporting
tourism marketing and operations, as proposed by the Renton Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
(LTAC).
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended to endorse the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee's suggestion to allocate
$447,500 in lodging tax funding for the year 2024, as outlined in the attached matrix and
summarized below. Furthermore, staff recommends granting authorization to the Mayor and City
Clerk to execute contracts with successful applicants for the allocation of budgeted funds
towards the proposed additional marketing initiatives detailed below.
BACKGROUND SUMMARY
Pursuant to RCW 67.28.1817, the City of Renton has established the Lodging Tax Advisory
Committee to recommend lodging tax fund allocations to the Renton City Council. The
Committee, chaired by Councilmember Alberson, includes Cathy Martinez from Legacy
Hospitality (Hampton), Scott Lane from Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle’s Southport,
and Menka Soni from AmPowering.
Per the statute, the Council can select recipients and award amounts solely from the candidates
and recommended sums provided by the local lodging tax advisory committee. Council has the
discretion to fund all, some, or none of the candidates on the list proposed by the LTAC.
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee convened on August 10, 2023, to approve and establish a
timeline for funding through the 2024 Lodging Tax application process. Applications were made
available online on August 23, 2023, with the deadline for submission set for October 20, 2023. A
total of twenty-one applications were received.
AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Valerie O’Halloran, Council President
Page 2 of 2
December 4, 2023
Following presentations from qualified applicants on November 9, 2023, the Committee held a
debriefing session post-interview to finalize its recommendations.
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee recommends Renton City Council approve 2024
expenditures from the Lodging Tax Fund as follows:
AmPowering - Global Women Festival: $15,000
AmPowering - North America Fashion Week: $15,000
AmPowering - Festival of Joy with Lights & Dandiya: $15,000
Black Owned Business Excellence - Professional Women of Color Network Retreat: $10,000
City of Renton - 2024 Renton Farmers Market: $5,000
City of Renton - Renton River Days: $10,000
City of Renton - Renton's 2024 Winter Lights & Outdoor Décor: $10,000
City of Renton - Renton Community Marketing Campaign: $150,000
Emerald Dynasty Entertainment – Polynesian Fest 2024: $40,000
Highschool.gg - Renton City Retro: $25,000
House of Kala - Rising Stars of Melody & Movement: $5,000
Northwest Entertainment Alliance - Kingcon NW 2024: $5,000
Randall Morris Foundation - Randall Morris Foundation: $25,000
Renton Chamber of Commerce Renton Visitors Center: $65,000
Renton Downtown Partnership Experience Renton: $25,000
Renton King county Justice Alliance - Black History Month: $5,000
Renton King County Justice Alliance - Juneteenth Festival Weekend: $5,000
Return to Renton Benefit Car Show - Return To Renton Benefit Car Show: $5,000
Sadhana & Voice of Planet - Rabindra Utsab 2024: $5,000
WA Black Owned Business Excellence - BOBE Annual Business Symposium: $7,500
Total Recommendation: $447,500
These proposed expenditures fall below the projected fund balance in the 2023-2024 lodging tax
fund. Staff commends the Committee for their comprehensive review of each application and
confirms that their recommendations align with the goals of the City’s Business Plan and
Economic Development Strategic Plan.
AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
2024 Funding Recommendations
Presentation to
Committee of the Whole
- January 4, 2024
LODGING TAX
AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
2024 Applications
Deadline to apply
Oct. 23
Projects recommended
20
New Proposals
5 Requests totaling
$1,009,500
Applications
21
Total recommendation
$447,500
AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Celebrating Diversity: AmPowering's
Signature Events in Renton
AmPowering
Festival of Joy with Lights & Dandiya - Oct 19, 2024
North America Fashion Week - Sept 14, 2024
Global Women Festival - Dec 7, 2024
The three-event series positions Renton on a global stage,
embodying collaborative efforts for inclusivity. These events
not only promote fashion but also serve as charity gatherings
with substantial humanitarian impact. They have successfully
generated employment, heightened tourism, and established
Renton as an enticing destination.AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
City Events
Parks & Recreation
Farmers Market
Renton River Days
Renton's 2024 Winter
Lights & Outdoor
Decor
June through October
July 26-28, 2024
November - December
City-hosted community events infuse vitality into Renton, creating an inviting atmosphere
that promotes the city as a destination worth visiting and staying in.AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Renton Community
Marketing Campaign
City of Renton
Renton Chamber of Commerce
Renton School District
Renton Technical College
Valley Medical Center
Proposing a comprehensive three-year initiative harnessing
lodging tax funds to bolster Renton's economic vitality,
establish it as a premier destination for tourism and
business travel, and elevate its regional image. This
initiative entails constructing the campaign foundation
through activities like rebranding and website development,
followed by implementing communication strategies to
highlight Renton's distinct appeal, ensuring sustained
growth and heightened recognition in the foreseeable
future.AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Polynesian
Festival
Emerald Dynasty Entertainment
The Poly-Fest, originating during Aloha Friday
festivities in Renton and later hosted at the
Outlet Collection Seattle for six years, aims to
return to Renton in 2024. Leveraging past
successes, the goal is to align, build upon, and
expand the vision of the City of Renton Multi-
Cultural Festival.
July 19, 2024 AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Renton City Retro
Highschool.gg
Aims to establish Renton as a vibrant retro
gaming destination, merging culinary
excellence, craft beer, and video gaming.
Strives to unite diverse gamers, collectors, and
enthusiasts in an inclusive space featuring
classic console games, vintage arcade
cabinets, and tournaments. Seeks to inspire
social connections and friendships through the
shared passion for classic video games,
fostering a new generation's appreciation for
retro gaming.
May 18, 2024 AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Rising Stars of
Melody &
Movement
House of Kala
An 2-3 day Indian Classical Music and Dance
festival celebrates the revered Trinity of Carnatic
music, showcasing globally renowned artists
from India. The grand finale features a theater-
style Indian Classical Dance ballet, uniting
esteemed senior artists from India and the U.S.,
alongside local talents selected through
auditions focusing on precision, rhythm, and
expressive storytelling.
June 7, 2024 AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
KingConNW
Northwest Entertainment Alliance
October 18, 2024
Kingcon NW returns to downtown Renton, offering a family-
friendly comicon experience with a focus on creativity, gaming,
and science. The event aims to engage diverse communities,
provide opportunities for local artists, and boost the downtown
economy through increased foot traffic.AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Women of Color Wellbeing,
Wealth & Worth
Professional Women of Color Network Retreat
A multi-day event that empowers, educates, and
supports women of color in their personal and
professional journeys. With a focus on self-worth,
financial and personal wellbeing, the retreat offers
a safe and inclusive space for attendees to
rejuvenate and connect.
December 13, 2024 AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Celebrity Golf
Tournament Randall Morris Foundation
The 18th Annual tournament and gala attracts
celebrities and guests from out of town. In
addition to supporting various local businesses,
including accommodations, restaurants,
catering services, transportation, and
advertising, the foundation focuses on giving
back to the community through financial aid
and scholarships, particularly directed towards
youth and families.
Sept 8, 2024 AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Renton Visitor’s Center
Renton Chamber of Commerce
Enhancing tourism in Renton through a comprehensive
strategy. This involves supporting the Renton Visitors Center,
improving the city's online presence with updated information
on local attractions, accommodations, and attracting diverse
tourism events and hotel stays via an online Request for
Proposals (RFP) process, ultimately contributing to Renton's
economic growth.AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Experience
Renton
Renton Downtown Partnership
The project aims to boost tourism within a 50-
mile radius and beyond. The event will
showcase diverse culinary options, pop-up
shops, a concert, and a food truck festival.
Collaboration with local hotels will include
shuttle services and discount cards. A marketing
firm will target a 50-200 mile radius, with a
budget dedicated to marketing efforts.AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Renton King County Justice
Alliance
Black History Month & Juneteenth
A two-part series in Renton: The Renton Black
History Month Festival and the Juneteenth Festival.
These events celebrate Black history, showcase
Black-owned businesses, and foster community
engagement. Funding is essential to cover event
logistics, artist participation, and outreach efforts to
ensure a vibrant and inclusive celebration
Feb 2, 2024 - Black History Month Festival
Jun 14, 2024 - Juneteenth Celebration AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Return to Renton
Car Show
The annual car show in downtown Renton, held
every second Sunday of July, draws 300-400
cars and a minimum of 3,000 spectators.
July 6, 2024
AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Tagore Festival
Rabindra Utsab Sadhana & Voice of Planet
A two-day celebration of Indian polymath,
Rabindra Utsab featuring a diverse program,
including local, out-of-state, and international
artists, youth dance, art exhibitions, and
performances. Plans for 2024 involve
expanding to three days, celebrating Tagore's
birthday in May, and inviting more talented
artists and organizations. Community support
has been extensive, and media reviews and
video snippets showcase the event's success.
May 11, 2024 AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
BOBE Business Symposium
WA Black Owned Business Excellence
October 18, 2024
The BOBE Symposium is a community-focused initiative
that offers educational content, grants, and facilitates
collaboration among local businesses. Attendees can
engage in insightful discussions and networking,
contributing to the growth and well-being of the community. AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Total funding recommendation
AmPowering - Global Women Festival: $15,000
AmPowering - North America Fashion Week: $15,000
AmPowering - Festival of Joy with Lights & Dandiya: $15,000
Black Owned Business Excellence - Prof Women of Color Network Retreat: $10,000
City of Renton - 2024 Renton Farmers Market: $5,000
City of Renton - Renton River Days: $10,000
City of Renton - Renton's 2024 Winter Lights & Outdoor Décor: $10,000
City of Renton - Renton Community Marketing Campaign: $150,000
Emerald Dynasty Entertainment – Polynesian Fest 2024: $40,000
Highschool.gg - Renton City Retro: $25,000
House of Kala - Rising Stars of Melody & Movement: $5,000
Northwest Entertainment Alliance - Kingcon NW 2024: $5,000
Randall Morris Foundation - Randall Morris Foundation: $25,000
Renton Chamber of Commerce Renton Visitors Center: $65,000
Renton Downtown Partnership Experience Renton: $25,000
Renton King county Justice Alliance - Black History Month: $5,000
Renton King County Justice Alliance - Juneteenth Festival Weekend: $5,000
Return to Renton Benefit Car Show - Return To Renton Benefit Car Show: $5,000
Sadhana & Voice of Planet - Rabindra Utsab 2024: $5,000
WA Black Owned Business Excellence - BOBE Annual Business Symposium: $7,500
$447,500
AGENDA ITEM #1. a)
Questions?AGENDA ITEM #1. a)