
Palm Beach County
Tourist Development Council Board Book
April 10, 2025
1. TDC Board Attendance 04.10.2025
2. Agenda 04.10.2025
Palm Beach County
Tourist Development Council Board Book
April 10, 2025
1. TDC Board Attendance 04.10.2025
2. Agenda 04.10.2025
3. TDC Board Meeting Minutes 02.13.2025
4. CONSENT ITEMS
4.A. DTPB Activity Report
4.B. Cultural Council Activity Report
4.C. Sports Commission Activity Report
4.D. Film & TV Monthly Newsletter
4.E. Film & TV Production Report
4.F. Convention Center Income Statement & Financial Operations Analysis Compared to Budget & Prior Year
4.G. Convention Center Marketing Update
4.H. Convention Center "Pace" Revenue Report
4.I. ERM Project Status Report
4.J. PBI Traffic Report
4.K. Contract Tracking Report
4.L. Agencies Q1 FY2025 Reports
5. OLD BUSINESS
5.A. - 1. TDC Dashboard Reporting April FY25- February Activity
5.A. - 1.a. Bed Tax Collection Report
6. NEW BUSINESS
6.A. FY2025 Forecast & FY2026 Budget
6.F. - 1. Discover The Palm Beaches Update
(1)Mayor Maria G. Marino, Chair
(4) Jim Bronstien, Vice Chair(9/30/26)
(4) Mabel Melton Appt (9/30/26), Dist. 3
(2)Joseph Fisher Appt(9/30/25)Dist. 1
(2) Elena Peroulakies (9/30/25)Dist. 1
(3) Jim Mostad (9/30/20) Appt (9/30/28), Dis.2
(5)Daniel Hostettler(0930/23) Appt (09/30/27). Dis 4.
(6)Deputy Vice-Mayor Rob Long (9/30/24) Appt (03/08/22) Dis.5
(7)Don Dufresne ReAp(9/30/27) Dis6
(8) Davicka N. Thompson (9/30/2024) Appt(12/6/16)RdAppt(8/25/20) [Dis.7]
(9) Commissioner Christina Lambert Appt (10/01/22)- (9/30/26) At-Large
Isami Ayala Collazo, Assistant County Administrator
Liz Herman, Assistant County Attorney
Dave Lawrence, Culture
George Linley, Sports
Michelle Hillery, Film & TV
Milton Segarra, Discover
Deborah Drum, ERM
Dave Anderson, PBCCC
Kathy Griffin, PBCCC
Emanuel Perry, TDC
Joan Hutchinson, TDC
Vannette Youyoute, TDC
NA- Does not count towards attendance. P/W - Workshop P/S - Special Meeting
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P N/A
A N/A
P N/A
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Thursday, April 10, 2025 – 9:00 A.M.
2195 Southern Boulevard
West Palm Beach, Florida 33406
AGENDA 1. ROLL CALL*
Welcome to Elena Peroulakis. 2. MOTION TO APPROVE AGENDA ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS*
MOTION TO APPROVE FEBRUARY 13TH TDC MEETING MINUTES*
4.
MOTION TO RECEIVE AND FILE CONSENT ITEMS FOR MARCH 2025 emailed to the Board and APRIL 2025 included under this Agenda*
MARKETING AGENCIES REPORTING
A. DTPB ACTIVITY REPORT*
B. CULTURAL COUNCIL ACTIVITY REPORT*
C. SPORTS COMMISSION ACTIVITY REPORT*
D. FILM & TV MONTHLY NEWSLETTER*
E. FILM & TV PRODUCTION REPORT*
PBC CONVENTION CENTER OPERATING REPORTS
F. CONVENTION CENTER INCOME STATEMENT & FINANCIAL OPERATIONS ANALYSIS COMPARED TO BUDGET & PRIOR YEAR*
G. CONVENTION CENTER MARKETING UPDATE*
H. CONVENTION CENTER “PACE” REVENUE REPORT*
OTHER TDC-SUPPORTED AGENCY/DEPARTMENT REPORTS
I. ERM PROJECT STATUS REPORT*
J. PBI TRAFFIC REPORT*
K. CONTRACT TRACKING REPORT*
L. AGENCIES Q1 FY2025 REPORTS*
5. OLD BUSINESS – DISCUSSION ITEMS
A. TDC TOURISM PERFORMANCE METRICS
1. TDC DASHBOARD CURRENT MONTH & FY2025* - Emanuel Perry
a. Bed Tax Collections*
B. BCC PROCLAMATIONS ON MAY 6TH – Emanuel Perry
1. National Travel & Tourism Week
2. Art & Culture Month
C. LEGISLATIVE UPDATE – Ed Chase
D. PGA TOUR FEEDBACK – Emanuel Perry
E. BOCA RATON BOWL UPDATE – Emanuel Perry
F. TOURISM MASTER PLAN VISIONARY WORKSHOP – Emanuel Perry
G. PBI UPDATE – Nichole Hughes
6. NEW BUSINESS – DISCUSSION ITEMS
A. MOTION TO APPROVE FY25 FORECAST & FY26 BUDGETARY ITEMS*Emanuel Perry
B. MOTION TO APPOINT JIM MOSTAD AS VICE-CHAIR - Emanuel Perry
C. MOTION TO APPOINT DON DUFRESNE A CHAIR OF TDC FINANCE COMMITTEE – Emanuel Perry
D. ERM
1. Update – Deb Drum
E. CULTURAL COUNCIL
1. Update - Dave Lawrence
F. DISCOVER THE PALM BEACHES
1. Update – Milton Segarra
G. SPORTS COMMISSION
1. Update – George Linley
H. FILM & TV
1. Update – Michelle Hillery
I. CONVENTION CENTER
1. OVG Venue Management
a. Update - Dave Anderson
2. OVG Hospitality
b. Update - Kathy Griffin
The next Meeting will be on May 8, 2025.
*Attachment included.
Thursday, February 13, 2025 – 9:00 A.M.
Present Absent
Mayor Maria G. Marino, Chair
Mabel Melton
Joseph Fisher
Daniel Hostettler
Jim Mostad Deputy Vice-Mayor Rob Long
Don Dufresne
Davicka Thompson
Commissioner Christina Lambert
Staff
Isami Ayala Collazo, Assistant County Administrator
Liz Herman, Assistant County Attorney
Emanuel Perry, Tourist Development Council
Vannette Youyoute, Tourist Development Council
Joan Hutchinson, Tourist Development Council
Colton Hearn, Tourist Development Council
Patricia Ramirez, Tourist Development Council
Dave Lawrence, Cultural Council
Jennifer Sullivan, Cultural Council
Lauren Perry, Cultural Council
George Linley, Sports Commission
James Taylor, Sports Commission
David Fontanarosa, Sports Commission
Michelle Hillery, Film & TV Commission
Alberto Jordat, Film & TV Commission
Milton Segarra, Discover The Palm Beaches
Evan Lomrantz, Discover The Palm Beaches
Gustav Weibull, Discover The Palm Beaches
Erika Constantine, Discover The Palm Beaches
Kelly Cavers, Discover The Palm Beaches
Sergio Piedra, Discover The Palm Beaches
Deb Drum, ERM
Matt Mitchell, ERM
Dave Anderson, Convention Center/Spectra Venue Management
Kathy Griffin, Convention Center/Spectra Hospitality
Mike Brodnicki, Convention Center
Rebeca Krogman, PBI Airports
Other
Josh Brown, Sinclair Travel
Malachi Knowles, Sports Commission Board
Derek Webber, Webber Marketing
Jabari Morgan, Webber Marketing
2. MOTION TO APPROVE AGENDA ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS*
Motion to approve February 13th Agenda was made by Davicka Thompson and seconded by Don Dufresne. Motion carried 6-0 with Joseph Fisher, Daniel Hostettler and Deputy ViceMayor Rob Long absent.
3. MOTION TO APPROVE JANUARY 9TH TDC MEETING MINUTES*
Motion to approve January TDC Meeting Minutes was made by Jim Mostad and seconded by Don Dufresne. Motion carried 6-0 with Joseph Fisher, Daniel Hostettler, and Deputy ViceMayor Rob Long absent.
4. MOTION TO RECEIVE AND FILE CONSENT ITEMS FOR FEBRUARY 2025*
MARKETING AGENCIES REPORTING
A. DTPB ACTIVITY REPORT*
B. CULTURAL COUNCIL ACTIVITY REPORT*
C. SPORTS COMMISSION ACTIVITY REPORT*
D. FILM & TV MONTHLY NEWSLETTER*
E. FILM & TV PRODUCTION REPORT*
PBC CONVENTION CENTER OPERATING REPORTS
F. CONVENTION CENTER INCOME STATEMENT & FINANCIAL OPERATIONS ANALYSIS COMPARED TO BUDGET & PRIOR YEAR*
G. CONVENTION CENTER MARKETING UPDATE*
H. CONVENTION CENTER “PACE” REVENUE REPORT*
OTHER TDC-SUPPORTED AGENCY/DEPARTMENT REPORTS
I. ERM PROJECT STATUS REPORT*
J. PBI TRAFFIC REPORT*
K. CONTRACT TRACKING REPORT*
L. AGENCIES FY24 YEAR END SBE REPORT 09.30.2024*
M. AGENCIES FY24 YEAR END FVP REPORT 09.30.2024*
N. AGENCIES FY24 YEAR END PERFORMANCE MEASURES REPORT 09.30.2024*
O. AGENCIES FY24 YEAR END QUARTERLY REPORT 09.30.2024*
Motion to receive and file March Consent Items was made by Davicka Thompson and seconded by Don Dufresne. Motion carried 6-0 with Joseph Fisher, Daniel Hostettler, and Deputy Vice-Mayor Rob Long absent.
5. OLD BUSINESS – DISCUSSION ITEMS
A. TDC TOURISM PERFORMANCE METRICS
1. TDC DASHBOARD CURRENT MONTH & FY25* - Emanuel Perry
Perry
Bed Tax Collection – December 2024 collected in January was $9.6M compared to the same month last year at $8.6M, a 12% increase. Actual December was 16% above Budget and 36% above the prior month at $7M. Actual December was 16% higher than 2023.
FYTD 2025 Collections, at $26.6M, were 13% higher than the last fiscal year to date, at $23.5M. FYTD collections at $26.5M are 14% above theApproved Budget and 11% higher than 2023 collections.
The Rooms sold for December were 444,123, 10% higher than last year. Rooms available for December at 598,548 are 1% higher than last year. Hotel RoomsActive today in the county at 19,308.
Occupancy for December 2024 was 74.2%, 9% higher than last year. Occupancy for December 2023 was 68.3%. December 2022 was 69.5%. The average daily rate for December was $286 93, 2% higher than last year, and 7% above 2022. The Revenue/Available Room for December 2024 was $212.90 higher than the prior December 11%.
In December, Hotel Room Net Sales FY25 year over year increased 10% at $122M compared to $111M. Non-hotel room sales FY25 year over year December decreased (4%) at $31M compared to $32M. Hotel room net sales FYTD 2025 increased 7% from $345M to $322M. Non-hotel Room Sales FYTD 2025 increased 7% at $81M compared to $76M. FYTD 2025 Taxable Revenues Fiscal Year over FY2024 increased 7% at $426M compared to $398M. FYTD 2025 Taxable Revenues Fiscal Year over FY2023 increased 7% at $426M compared to $398M.
Airport passengers for December 2024 were 872,107, 13% higher than in December 2023, and the Total Estimated Seat Capacity is 2% higher than last December 2023 with 1,054,773 seats. PBI Passenger 12-month rolling is an 8% increase at 8,403,519 over last year.
Leisure & Hospitality Employment for December, 97,200, increased 5% over the same month last year. Accommodation employment remained flat compared to last year at 11,400 employees. F&B was 2% higher than last year at 62,500 employees. Arts & Entertainment employment is 15% higher than last year at 23,300 employees.
Perry
This past Monday, we held our first finance meeting with three board attendees. We are budgeting for FY 2026 with a conservative 3% increase over last year's $86.7M. To maintain competitiveness, we've maximized expenses and ensured financial stability with a comfortable $66M reserve in our first and fourth cents funds. This allows us to pursue
infrastructure projects effectively. Additionally, we are focused on attracting residents and hosting expos at our Convention Center.
We are committed to strategic investment, especially as the tourism plan unfolds, which includes the proposal for a single agency of record. This would enable all agencies to share their stories under a unified message.
Dufresne
It was a good preliminary start. I am sure we will have some tweaks on the way, but we will revisit that in April.
Marino
Do we need to add anybody to the finance team?
Perry
Right now, we need a fifth person, I will meet with you (Mayor) and also connect with you as far as a vice chair to this board, get input as to what direction you would like to go with the board.
Perry
Our Convention Center Path Forward: about two and a half weeks ago, agency heads and I provided a high-level overview of the Convention Center to the BCC for new members. A study completed in 2020 laid out the development phases, resulting in three recommendations. The first is a minor short-term improvement, focusing on updates like carpeting and bathroom stalls, as the building is 20 years old. The second is for a second headquarter hotel, initially suggested to have 600 rooms, but the recommendation came back for 400. A term sheet was supposed to go before the BCC this past Tuesday but was pulled for later review. Lastly, we issued a Convention Center Expansion report, aiming to grow our facility in line with the Development Regional Impact guidelines. I'm here to answer any questions.
Anderson
Our carpet is complete, and while it is great to be busy, scheduling improvements is challenging. Back of house upgrades can happen anytime, but bathroom renovations may take months. We operate year-round and are mindful of other facilities that have closed parts of their Convention Centers. We are collaborating with the county team to devise a plan. I appreciate my team's work; visitors are surprised to hear we opened in 2003.
Ayala Collazo
We've been flexible with our schedule, working at night and getting creative to ensure operations continue smoothly while catching up on improvements.
D. PBI UPDATE* – Rebecca Krogman
Krogman
In December 2024, the total number of passengers reached 872,107, compared to 771,420 in December 2023. This marks a 13.1% increase. The sea capacity grew from 773,000 in December 2023 to 1,014,240, reflecting a 4% increase.
Air carrier operations in December 2024 totaled 6,478, an increase from 6,150 in December 2023, representing a 5.3% increase. General Aviation operations rose to 11,374 in December 2024, a 7.2% increase from 10,611 in December 2023.
Overall, total operations saw a 6.5% increase, reaching 17,852 in December 2024, compared to 16,760 in December 2023.
New seasonal nonstop flights from Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) include Allegiant's route to Indianapolis, which resumes today with two flights per week.
Southwest Airlines is resuming its route to Buffalo on February 15th and will start a new route to Nashville on March 6th. They are also resuming flights to St. Louis starting March 6th.
Current seasonal nonstop flights from PBI include:
- Air Canada: Montreal and Toronto
- Allegiant: Grand Rapids and Cincinnati
- American Airlines: Chicago O'Hare and New York LaGuardia (Chicago O'Hare will now be offered year-round)
- Avelo: Wilmington
- Breeze: Charleston, New Haven, and Norfolk
- Delta: Minneapolis
- Frontier: Cincinnati, Cleveland, Chicago O'Hare, and Trenton
- JetBlue: Iceland, Buffalo, and Los Angeles
- Porter: Toronto
- Southwest: Providence
- Sun Country: Minneapolis
- United Airlines: Houston Intercontinental, Chicago, Harris, Denver, and Washington, D.C.
A. RECOMMENDATION TO BCC FOR TERMINATION OF SUNFEST AGREEMENT* - Emanuel Perry
Perry
I am seeking a recommendation to the BCC to terminate the SunFest grant agreement. Dave and I had an open and honest conversation with the representative from SunFest, and they are not going to be able to continue with the event. We invited them to come back once the event is revamped, but as of this year, we are looking for a recommendation to terminate the current agreement.
Motion for recommendation to BCC for Termination of Sunfest Agreement was made by Don Dufresne and seconded by Commissioner Christina Lambert. Motion carried 6-0 with Joseph Fisher, Daniel Hostettler, and Deputy Vice-Mayor Rob Long absent.
B. MOTION TO APPROVE AMENDMENT TO NORTON MUSEUM OF ART INCREASE IN THE AMOUNT OF $100,000* – Emanuel Perry
Perry
Dave Lawrence did a presentation back in December, with the Norton Museum and as the Boca Museum of Art, both of which are looking to create the Spanish Arts Exhibition. They are joining in efforts to market these two exhibits and are looking for additional support from us. We will be amending their current contract to $100,000 and to increase the Norton Museum’s Category B grant from $275,000 to $375,000. The Norton Museum is taking the lead on these joint marketing efforts.
Lawrence
This text discusses two different exhibitions taking place at the Norton Museum of Art and the Boca Raton Museum of Art. The collaboration between these two institutions occurred serendipitously, and they approached us with the opportunity for joint marketing efforts. This initiative is beyond what they are receiving from their respective grants. The goal is to cross-promote their membership bases and visitor lists to attract audiences from Miami and the surrounding areas to experience both institutions. We believe this collaboration represents an excellent opportunity for creative synergy between the organizations, resulting in a stronger combined experience for visitors.
Melton
The connection between PAM and NORC was fantastic, especially with the support of Brightline for the event. It was extremely successful, and the numbers were significant. As I mentioned to my husband when we moved here, the growth is moving north as people are increasingly choosing this destination over Fort Lauderdale and Broward. This event not only highlighted our cultural vibrancy but also set the stage for even more growth, especially with the upcoming exhibit.
Lawrence
Yes, I think that too, to highlight that we look for big signature events to really draw attention and focus. This is the first time that these Spanish master paintings are here in Palm Beach County and to have them at two institutions that are covering different periods of time. It is a big deal.
Motion to approve Amendment to Norton Museum of Art Increase in the amount of $100,000.oo was made by Commissioner Christina Lambert and seconded by Mabel Melton. Motion carried 6-0 with Joseph Fisher, Daniel Hostettler, and Deputy Vice Mayor Rob Long absent.
1. MOTION TO APPROVE The Category “G” Grant Agreements*George Linley
a. 2025 FuelTech Hydrodrag Nationals/World Championships (April 4-6, 2025) – Burt Aaronson South County Regional Park
b. First Responder Games (May 11-25, 2025) – Various Venues across Palm Beach County
c.
d.
Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) Club World Cup (June 14 - July 7, 2025) - Gardens North County District Park
Perfect Game Summer Series (June 16July 28, 2025) CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches, Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium & Santaluces Athletic Complex
e. USTA Boys 18's & 16's National Clay Court Championships (July 6 - 13, 2025) – Boca Swim & Racquet Club, Delray Beach Tennis Center, Delray Swim & Tennis Club, Boca Grove Country Club, Boca West Country Club, The Oaks, Palm Beach Gardens Tennis Center
f. Prospect Select Fall World Series (September 5-15, 2025) - CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches, Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium & Santaluces Athletic Complex
We have approved six grants for various national and international sports events, aimed at covering venue rental, site fees, and operational costs in the Palm Beaches. One grant will support the Perfect Game Summer Series, comprising six baseball tournaments at our spring training facilities in June and July, attracting a minimum of 300 high school teams and 10,000 attendees. Last year, these events generated over 7,400 room nights, and we expect similar results this year.
We have also approved a grant to bid for hosting the FIFA Club World Cup from June 14 to July 7, 2025, with the City of Palm Beach Gardens as the grantee. This grant will assist in the necessary preparations, and while we cannot disclose the participating team yet, it is looking promising.
Additionally, we are planning to bring back the First Responder Games, host a hydro drag jet ski racing event, a USTA national clay court event across multiple tennis courts,
and another amateur baseball tournament in September, collectively generating nearly 22,000 room nights.
Motion to approve The Category “G” Grant Agreements was made by Don Dufresne and Davicka Thompson. Motion carried 6-0 with Joseph Fisher, Daniel Hostettler and Deputy Vice-Mayor Rob Long absent.
2. RECOMMENDATION FOR BCC APPROVAL FOR A 5-YEAR AGREEMENT UP TO $6.3M WITH WEBBER MARKETING*Emanuel Perry/James Taylor
Linley
I want to introduce our partners from Webber Marketing, Derek Webber, the founder and CEO, and Jabari Morgan. We’ve had the pleasure of knowing them for over a year and a half. Today’s presentation is unlike any sporting event we’ve discussed before. We’ve analyzed over 60 different sports in the last 3 to 5 years, but this is a completely new unique sport, entertainment, and cultural experience for the Palm Beaches.
This journey began over three years ago with a conversation about exploring opportunities within the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) sports market, starting with football. We considered hosting an HBCU football game at FAU Stadium, following the successful Boca Raton Bowl. With James joining our team nearly two years ago, we expanded our discussions. We eventually connected with Webber Marketing, which successfully launched the National Battle of the Bands, an incredible event that draws significant attendance and economic impact in Houston. We are optimistic about Florida Atlantic University being the venue for our new event. We are not bidding for or relocating an event; we aim to create something complimentary to Houston’s existing offerings, taking place during a significant and busy weekend in collegiate sports. I also want to recognize Malachi Knowles from the Sports Commission Board for his contributions and insights.
James Taylor and Emanuel Perry went through the PowerPoint Battle of Bands Presentation.
Dufresne
Who are the 7,845 attendees?
Taylor
The parents and supporters of the band members.
Dufresne
Do we talk about exclusivity? Is there going to be another national Battle of the Bands a month later?
Perry
They will still hold the event in August, which is before college football season, but the contract includes an exclusivity clause. They are not allowed to create an event with a similar market or structure 60 days before or after our event.
Dufresne
I would like to see an expansion of the exclusivity period to 90 days. Regarding the participants, I saw that we have projected 1,100 room nights. Is that accurate, or do we anticipate more than just 1,100 room nights?
Taylor
We are looking at 22,000 room nights total.
Webber
This initiative focuses on music, arts, and education, aiming to elevate students through scholarship opportunities and encouraging them to dream big. We aim to create a supportive platform that generates community awareness and participation in this mission.
We’ve developed programs such as summer band camps for underserved youth, instrument scholarships for high schools, and a symphonic event at the Kennedy Center. Our goal is to grow scholarship funds from 1.7 million to 4 million, providing bands with a fully funded experience, including flights and accommodations. Over the last decade, we've been fortunate to partner with supportive corporations and aligned cities. We strive to make a meaningful impact, creating perfect moments for students to inspire their aspirations while contributing to community welfare, such as providing meals in collaboration with Walmart.
Thompson
Expand a little more on the idea behind the community events. Is that a week-long leading up to the actual Battle of the Bands that Saturday?
Webber
We kick off the event with an emerging experience aimed at helping entrepreneurs access resources for growing their businesses. Typically, we start on a Thursday or Friday with a welcome reception, followed by a step and stroll event that Friday. Our lead-up includes extensive media and community awareness efforts, including outreach to support the homeless. The main event spans a three-day weekend, featuring various ancillary opportunities that build up to the big weekend.
Thompson
The STEM College and Career Fair. 40 HBCUs are invited. Are those the bands that are participating? Who will be invited? And then as far as the companies that are participating, are those companies from Palm Beach County, we are inviting to the career fair? Or how does that work?
Webber
The 40 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) come from across the country and represent a diverse range of institutions. They have representatives from
various departments, including music and STEM, who attend to market their programs, recruit students, and sometimes offer scholarships on-site. Additionally, they waive application fees for students. In our experience, once we raise awareness in the community, students arrive with their applications in hand.
Thompson Will these be high school seniors?
Webber Absolutely.
Thompson
And the students that are invited, are they Title I schools?
Webber
They are all schools. We do not want to leave out anybody. And we want to create opportunities for all students who want to gain information about college.
Thompson
Dave, with the Cultural Council, are there music programs that we can partner with to tackle this?
Lawrence
Absolutely. Some organizations do this kind of programming. I am thinking of Nat King Cole Generation Hope and other school programs that would be great for them.
Lambert
This is something completely new for us, and I believe it will attract people who haven't visited before, which is very exciting. Regarding the community events and other related activities, will they be centered around the FAU campus and surrounding areas, or will they take place throughout the entire county?
Linley
I think, I'd love to spread it around the county as much as we can. The competition will be focused at FAU Stadium. But I think we could affect a lot of different communities through this product.
Perry
We want to cast a wide net to ensure we reach immigrant communities. By providing those kids with a path to higher education, we can make an impact across north and south county, ensuring we reach as many as possible.
Jabari
Our leadership and direction are shaped by our partners. For example, the Emerging Experience Committee, which was developed through a partnership with Morgan Chase, has grown and expanded as we continue to progress each year. There are areas in the
county we still need to reach and raise awareness in. We need to create a landscape that accommodates these areas and ensures visibility. We are highly adaptable to this process.
Lambert
The hotel nights will be focused around the Boca area specifically, though I'm not sure what the inventory is like in that area.
Linley
From experience with large-scale events, I've seen the challenge of limited hotel inventory. For example, during the IWSA IWLC President’s Cup, which hosted 500 lacrosse teams and nearly 14,000 room nights, we faced shortages in Wellington, with rooms in places like Deerfield and Fort Lauderdale, and only a few in Martin County. While we now have more hotel rooms than we did before COVID, events requiring 15,000-25,000 room nights will likely extend beyond the county.
Lambert
You mentioned the 35% being invested back into the event. What does that mean?
Perry
That brings the total to around $1.9 to $1.2M annually. Once we have the settlement date with FAU and Derek’s team, we can offset those future costs. We will front the expenses to bring the teams here, get them booked, etc., and then, after the event, we will offset the future costs before finalizing payment.
Lambert
You mentioned that you will continue the August event. How is this different from the August event?
Webber
The August event is the front end of the year. This is the back end of the year. The most enticing part of this is the celebration of the weekend as a whole. That is what makes it different.
Lambert
Will it be a similar type of event, at a different time of year?
Webber
Yes. pre-season and post-season.
Dufresne
Would there be an objection to doing a 90-day window on either side, rather than a 60day window on either side?
Webber
Right now, I do not foresee this being a problem, but trust me, we are not going to do a lot of these. It's an immense amount of work, and I do not want anyone to underestimate that. We are talking 2,200 band members, feeding them three times a day, with over
11,000 meals, 95 charter buses, and two vans to move them across the county. We are committed to ensuring they have an unforgettable experience.
To be transparent, we also have interest from other cities, like Dallas, and several other markets. We are being very intentional about our approach.
If a 90-day timeline helps the council feel comfortable, just let us know why. We are shooting straight with you our goal isn't to create 100-hour work weeks for 6-10 weeks leading up to such a major project. We are excited about this opportunity, but we are not trying to create another one after 90 days.
To be clear, we are a professional agency. We manage high-profile clients like the PGA, J.P. Morgan Chase, Walmart, Nike, Amazon, and many more. We are also the largest agency of record for HBCUs and manage media rights, sponsorships, and championship events for the SWAC conference. We work with PepsiCo, and we manage intellectual properties nationwide. So, we take a very intentional, thoughtful approach to everything we do.
Dufresne
Is there an out clause?
Perry Yes. There is a termination clause.
Thompson
Is there a concern about the inventory of hotel rooms that we will have since that is our high season?
Perry
We'll be able to absorb it. If not, fans traveling will still be able to find accommodation, whether through VRBO or Airbnb. However, I want to highlight that we still need to finalize the settlement dates and the Fan Fest area within the current contract. It's important to note that this board will oversee those dates. We're still in contract negotiations with FAU, but they’re on board. If things don’t work out, we’ll need to get their board’s approval.
Dufresne Can these events be more central county?
Perry The ancillary events? I would not have an issue with that.
Marino
When you talk about corporate partners. What corporate partners do you bring to this event?
Webber
That's key, it's the only way this will survive. You only have one part of it. We'll secure a title or presenting sponsor. Most of our corporate partners are national brands, like McDonald's and others in the queue. Their support is crucial for sustainability on our end. Ultimately, we’re responsible, but we can't do it without their funding, input, and support.
Jabari
We do research too with some of the partners. We have some vested interests that are particularly focused on certain demographic or geographical areas, so we will take into consideration when presenting this property
Dufresne
I would say that if we could get 90 days on either side of the event, and that we can centralize the events, the ancillary events, the Central Palm Beach County, I would make a motion to move.
Motion to recommend for BCC approval for a 5-year agreement up to $6.3M with Webber Marketing was made by Don Dufresne and Davicka Thompson. Motion carried 6-0 with Joseph Fisher, Daniel Hostettler, and Deputy Vice Mayor Rob Long absent.
D. ERM
1. Update – Deb Drum
Drum
Our staff has been spending significant time responding to private landowners on the beach, dealing with erosion, asking the county to intervene. However, our funding doesn’t support this, and we’ve spent a lot of time helping municipalities and private landowners understand that we cannot maintain areas in erosive private beach zones.
That said, we’ve completed the first half of an emergency dune restoration project along Singer Island, in the areas we maintain. We're now moving equipment to the south end to finish that portion before starting our next project at Coral Cove. A lot of our time goes into defending our work and program, which takes away from the actual tasks at hand. Palm Beach County has 47 miles of beaches, and we maintain 33 of those.
If any private entities approach you saying the county has failed them, please have them contact me, and I’ll clarify the situation.
Lastly, our Natural Areas Festival is this Saturday at Winding Waters from 2 to 7 p.m. It’s free and open to all, with a KidZone and a fun day for everyone. We hope to see you there!
1. Update* - Milton Segarra
Gustav Weibull went through the DTPB Presentation.
Segarra
Next week, as part of our advisory board, which includes 20 organizations from our industry hotels, attractions, and more we exchange ideas, needs, and expectations. Based on feedback from this group, we decided to focus on Dallas. With daily flights and year-round appeal, Dallas aligns perfectly with our needs. As a result, we've allocated a specific portion of our current fiscal budget to target the Dallas market.
From the 18th, we'll have a key activation in Dallas with nine or ten industry members. We’ll meet with about 100 meeting planners, leisure executives, media, and influencers to promote our destination. On the 19th, we’ll host a Palm Beach-themed event at the Lily Pulitzer store in Dallas, inviting their clients and our own. We’ll track the impact of this initiative as we move forward.
Dufresne
What is the cost? It would be very helpful if you explained how much these things cost.
Cavers
It is minimal. It is collectively, at most, less than $20,000. And it is three days of pickleball tournaments, breakfast, and training
Dufresne
You are just sensitive to the $200,000 window display in Manhattan, remember? That is why I am wondering how much that was going to cost.
Segarra
By the way, that event had one of the best returns on investment. But getting back to this one, as soon as we have it.
Dufresne
I don't think it's that difficult to get New Yorkers to come here.
Segarra
As soon as we have the numbers, we’ll share them with the board. The goal is to identify secondary markets and direct them to primary markets, ultimately surpassing 100,000 passengers a year.
Next, an evolution of the technology platform we presented last year. As you recall, you approved our development of a marketing technology platform, which focuses on client engagement, data storage, and analytics, all under strict data privacy standards. This platform supports our destination demand forecasting tool, helping us identify key periods and adjust marketing and sales initiatives to respond quickly and effectively.
We now need to take this to the next level: measuring the return on investment (ROI) of our actions. The solution is a marketing mix model, a tool that will analyze every marketing investment to ensure we’re allocating dollars where they’ll generate the best ROI. We’re currently selecting a company for this tool, which will be funded by Discover the Palm Beach’s private funds, so no approval from the board is needed. We’re actively
in the process, having issued an RFP with eight to ten interested companies. By the 19th, we’ll have all proposals, and by the 21st, we’ll narrow it down to three finalists. On the 27th, a full committee including the Chairman, myself, Emmanuel, and Mr. Mostad from this board will select the final vendor. We aim to have the tool in place by April or the summer of this year. This step will ensure that every marketing dollar is spent wisely, providing precise ROI for the destination
Dufresne
Who's going to own that technology once it is all in place?
Segarra
These are vendors. If there are any changes and we create a specific model, we’ll need to determine who will own it. Gustav, I’m not sure if that’s something you can clarify.
Weibull
Yes, we have spoken to multiple vendors, and a lot of them own it, and then we have to subscribe to maintain it. But we have in the RFP, if there is an option for us to own it, so we are looking at both options.
Dufresne
We are not creating this technology?
Weibull
It is existing technology. There are Nielsen and some of those big names that do this for CPG companies.
Dufresne
I thought I didn't know if we are creating it or prepackage.
Mostad
This is stepping into rarefied air, as the big question in marketing since its inception has always been how to measure a true ROI. I fully support the investment in this tool because your dollars are scrutinized every year. Having a tool that helps us quantify results more effectively is something we wholeheartedly support.
Segarra
This is an evolution of our technology platform, providing tools to forecast and, once we enter the marketplace, measure effectiveness.
On another note, Madam Chair, the Michelin Guide, is one of the most prestigious recognitions in the culinary world. Three years ago, Visit Florida entered into a contract with Michelin, selecting Miami, Orlando, and Tampa for phase one. In phase two, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and St. Pete/Clearwater were added, which was announced recently. This has generated over 81 million impressions.
The fact that Michelin judges will be visiting restaurants across our county, evaluating them for different categories, is a major step forward. Our destination's inclusion in the Michelin Guide is a significant milestone, highlighting our growing culinary landscape and helping drive further development of culinary options in Palm Beach.
Perry
For us to be mentioned alongside those elite destinations is a tremendous honor. It shows that people are willing to travel over 200 miles to experience the restaurants on that guide. It’s a huge step for the team, and it’s great to see them take it.
Segarra
We have some chefs that have been in restaurants with Michelin stars. So we have chefs, but restaurants, that is the next frontier for us.
Melton
One is coming to West Palm Beach off the island. That would be Thomas Keller.
Thompson How long is this process?
Constantine
The restaurants will be announced on April 17th. There is an event held at the place in Orlando.
F. FILM & TV 1. Update – Michelle Hillery
Hillery
Our film commission focuses on three main pillars: marketing Palm Beach County as a destination for feature films and commercial shoots, managing the Palm Beaches TV channel (which you'll see some of the current shows airing), and overseeing the Palm Beach Student Showcase of Films, the largest and most prestigious student film competition in the country.
I’d like to introduce Alberto Jordat, who will give a brief overview of a major survey we conduct every year. In your monthly packet, you receive our PAR (Production Activity Report), and in December and January, we conduct an in-depth survey with our local production community.
Alberto Jordat went through a presentation.
Hillery
In 2024, we saw nearly 600 total productions in Palm Beach County, thanks to our staff's diligence in following up and ensuring these numbers. With the state lacking a statewide incentive program to attract major feature films, the Palm Beaches TV channel and our Sponsorship and Development Program were created to increase local production.
Our local production companies are best suited to tell the story of Palm Beach County, and this program helps put them to work while producing tourism-focused content that markets the county and educates locals on what to see and do here.
The content is not just for our channel, it’s distributed across networks before airing on the channel. For example, shows like Breakaway Polo in the Palm Beaches and Women in Polo aired on ESPN with a potential reach of 70 million. We also have a wellness show, A New Oasis in the Palm Beaches, which is currently in production and will be distributed on Paramount with an 89 million reach. These shows are an example of the high-quality content being produced, with over 150 hours currently streaming 24/7 on the channel.
As for the Student Showcase of Films, we’ve reached a record number of submissions this year 611 entries from across Florida, judged by 50 industry experts. This continues to be a key event for showcasing student talent and reinforcing Palm Beach County’s film industry.
Lambert
I’m grateful for the Michelin-rated restaurants and the well-curated marketing programs, but I’ve also noticed in some of the ads and films, the focus is on everyday people who aren’t necessarily perfectly curated. I think it’s important that we make the destination feel attainable to everyone who might want to visit, not just those seeking an exclusive or high-end experience.
Hillery
I’m proud of the teams we’ve assembled who produce this content every day. As I mentioned to Mabel, some of the businesses we showcase are small and don’t have the budgets to market their unique services in Palm Beach County. This content is curated for the South Florida Daily Show on WXFL, airing twice daily at 6 PM and noon. We also repurpose it for our YouTube channel, The Palm Beaches TV Now, hosted by Theo Dorsey.
Everything is written and filmed in-house in our small studio. I honestly don’t know of any other DMO with a channel like ours. We've looked, and there’s nothing even close to what we have.
1. Update – Dave Lawrence
Lawrence
I want to thank George, Emanuel, and the team from Webber for the Battle of the Bands program. In my previous role in Indianapolis, we had an event called the Circle City Classic, which started as an HBCU football game. But it was the bands at halftime that drew the crowds, and it grew into one of the largest parades in the country. The ancillary programs surrounding the event were key, and it highlighted the importance of tourism. Families come not just for the band members, but for the excitement surrounding the
entire weekend. We’re ready to support this event in any way we can, and there are many cultural organizations in the county eager to help with the programming. Kudos to everyone for bringing this to Palm Beach County!
On a different note, Gustav mentioned the low numbers in May. That’s part of why Mosaic was created our month-long celebration of shows, art, ideas, and culture. This will be its ninth year. We’ve already selected the official artwork, and we’re currently soliciting events for this year’s Mosaic. Programs like this are key to bridging the lower seasons, and we’re excited to expand it.
Regarding the Category B and CII grant applications, those are now available for our cultural institutions. The deadline is at the end of February, and we’ve held workshops to help the applicant organizations with their proposals. These will be reviewed by public grant panels in May, and I’ll share more information about those dates if you’d like to join us.
I also want to highlight the Black Cultural Heritage Trail, a collaboration with ten community organizations. The full information is now available on a dedicated website where visitors can create their own tours using a downloadable Google map. We’re continuously expanding the trail, and there are thousands of informational cards being distributed statewide to promote this incredible resource.
Finally, we recently opened an exhibition called Reflections of a Century, celebrating 100 years of Boca Raton through art. It’s open at our headquarters in Lake Worth Beach, and I encourage all of you to check it out before it closes at the end of March.
Is there any update on the state of cultural funding following the issues we encountered last year in November? Has there been any fallout from that situation, or efforts made to shore up funding for next year?
Following the initial budget release, the $32M for cultural funding has now been reinstated, which is a positive sign. During Palm Beach County Days and throughout the legislative session, we’ll continue working to ensure this funding remains secure. Additionally, several subcommittees are reviewing potential overrides to last year's vetoes, including arts funding, so there's a chance some of the cuts could be restored.
This funding is crucial because it helps cultural organizations with operating support, covering staff salaries and general operations. We're collaborating with Florida Culture Alliance, the Division of Arts and Culture, and other statewide partners to ensure the funding stays in place, and we’re hopeful that some of last year’s cuts will be addressed.
1. OVG Venue Management
a. Update - Dave Anderson
Anderson
Looking back at January, it was a fast-paced month but a good one. We hosted a variety of events, including a fashion trade show, contemporary art show, nationwide IT summit, fencing competition, and concluded the month with a successful Floor and Decor summit.
Tonight marks the opening of the 21st Palm Beach Jewelry, Art, and Antique Show, which has grown tremendously since its humble beginnings in 2004. The show is now one of the most prominent in the U.S., attracting international vendors and generating significant business. This year, we have an amazing turnout, and the large yellow Birkin bag outside has garnered global attention, including an article in the New York Post.
Looking ahead, after President's Day, we have a major medical conference, continuing our streak of great events. In addition, we're gearing up for the Mango Fest in June, and we're excited about the ongoing relationship with Discover the Palm Beaches, with site tours and growing interest from various sectors.
Our convention and hotel package continues to be a major draw. We have a competitive edge with our downtown area, entertainment district, and hotel package, which is tough for other cities to match. We're also on track to break ground in the spring of next year on our second hotel, a significant milestone. Our growth continues, and the expansion efforts are moving forward.
On a related note, Milton, we’ve had long-standing ties with the Dallas Convention Center. If you need assistance with anything there, we’d be happy to lend a hand
2. OVG Hospitality
b. Update - Kathy Griffin
Griffin
I’d like to take a moment to highlight some of the incredible work done by the Convention Center staff in supporting local Palm Beach County organizations. From packing necessity packets for the Lewis Center for the homeless, hosting blood drives, to food donations for Meals on Wheels, our staff really steps up. One effort I’m particularly proud of is our ongoing relationship with Inlet Grove High School.
As many of you saw at the Mayor’s breakfast last month, Inlet Grove students have been involved with us for several years now. They shadow both front and back of house staff during events, and we also offer career days, where students are introduced to various professions within the hospitality industry. We even go out to their campus to host resume’ workshops and mock interviews.
This partnership has been flourishing for about three years, and I wanted to share a note I received from Chef Robert, who heads up the culinary program at Inlet Grove, as a testament to the impact this initiative is having on students.
Catherine, “first, let me thank you for allowing us to partner with you and your team at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. The Tutelage that your staff and you provide
has started to bear fruit in monumental proportions. Students are getting scholarships and management jobs due to their experience and the seeds that you've planted. When you invite us for a career day at your establishment, when you have events that are on a grand scale, and you invite us to work with the chef and the wait staff, when they come back to class, in lab, it is like night and day in their performance Before I knew it, they asked me when we could go back again. The resume’-building class you scheduled for us is a cornerstone for all of our students, so I am inviting the whole student body, not just the class, this year, if that is alright with you. We here at Inland Grove cannot thank you enough for allowing us to network and photo op with the Mayor and the Congresswoman on such an auspicious occasion. How many people can put that on their resume?
Thompson
Are there metrics that demonstrate how we can attract those students once they graduate from years past?
Griffin
Let me look at that and get back to you.
Marino
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that the Cognizant Classic in the Palm Beaches is at the end of this month and the beginning of next, so we hope to see you all there. Artie Gronk will be performing at Glades District Park this weekend, and we’re looking forward to seeing people out there in a couple of months.
Also, Spring Training has officially begun! Catchers and pitchers have reported, and the official briefing starts on February 22nd. Please come out and support all these great events happening in our area
Malachi
The Inner-City Youth Golfers Incorporated is celebrating its 20th anniversary, and for those who may not be aware, we are building a unique and impactful facility at 125 West 13th Street in Riviera Beach. This will be the only African American golf museum and inner-city youth clubhouse of its kind in the United States. It will be available for community activities, and we are excited about what this will bring to the area.
As part of the celebration, we'll also be celebrating the 20th anniversary of the African American Golf Hall of Fame. This young lady here, was one of our speakers last year, and we're looking forward to continued success in empowering youth and celebrating the legacy of African American golfers.
On the other hand, we are requesting support for our 20th anniversary event at the end of May. George and the Sports Commission have been supportive, and Emanuel has
graciously been involved. This year, we are honoring three very special individuals with awards: Verdenia Baker, Doug Mosley, and ESPN West Palm.
We would greatly appreciate any support you can provide. If you would like to join us, please help us spread the word and share the announcement in your networks. Your involvement will be sincerely appreciated, and we look forward to having you with us to celebrate this milestone.
Hutchinson
Last Sunday morning, the Norton Museum got a nice plug on the CBS Sunday Morning Show. If you're over a certain age, you will know it is hosted by Jane Paulie. And I was surprised to see that show highlighted an art exhibition which is currently at the Norton Museum.
Marino
If you haven’t already, please make sure to get your tickets or secure a sponsorship for the Ball to Benefit the Homeless Coalition. The event will take place on March 15th at PGA National. It's an incredible opportunity to support a fantastic cause, as all proceeds will go to the Homeless Coalition, who do a tremendous job in our community
Meeting adjourned at 10:48 a.m.
There is NO MEETING in MARCH, 2025. The next meeting will be on April 10, 2025.
*Attachment included.
TO: Tourist Development Council
FROM:
Milton Segarra, President/CEO
DATE: March 31, 2025
RE: Discover The Palm Beaches Monthly Activity Report March 2025
This report provides an overview of Discover The Palm Beaches’ (DTPB) activities in March 2025, highlighting progress toward key TDC performance measures. It outlines significant trends in our owned visitor digital footprint, advertising impressions, social media engagement, and booked room nights for the month.
To provide additional context, this report also includes lodging performance data for February 2025. Lodging results for February showed solid growth, with total room night revenue reaching $209.8M (+8.5%) and 658,000 room nights sold (+2.7%). Bed tax collections for the month are estimated at $12.5M.
Key trends driving February performance include:
• Group room nights was up 21%, representing 24% of all hotel room nights sold
• Transient room nights was technically down 0.5% due to last year being leap year but up 2.9% when adjusted to 28 days
• North and Central PBC grew significantly in room demand, up 9% and 10%
o Palm Beach Gardens room demand was up 8% and Downtown WPB room demand was flat (-0.3%).
o Hotel occupancy was 90.1% in Downtown WPB showing that demand was near capacity for the last 2 years
• South PBC grew ADR 9%, with multiple newly renovated properties
• Upscale hotels drove RevPAR with room demand up 13% and Luxury increased rates 11% to nearly $1,100 per night
• Occupancy at Luxury properties was down 5.7% with total Room demand up 1.7% on an increase in inventory of 7.8%
• Alternative lodging saw modest room demand grow with 1%. Occupancy was up 4.8% with a 3.2% decrease in inventory
• Occupancy among alternative lodging was 80.3% much higher than the typical 75% long run average for February
o Room demand
▪ Hotels: 452k (+6.7%)
▪ Alt. Lodging: 190k (+1.0%)
▪ Total Lodging: 658k (+2.7%)
o Room Night Revenue
▪ Hotels: $164.4M (+13.3%)
▪ Alt. Lodging: $29.9M (+3.6%)
▪ Total Lodging: $209.8M (+8.5%)
o Occupancy
▪ Hotels: 85.6% (+5.3%)
▪ Alt. Lodging: 80.3% (+4.8%)
▪ Total Lodging: 84.8% (+5.2%)
o Average Daily Rate (ADR)
▪ Hotels: $362 (+6.1%)
▪ Alt. Lodging: $357 (+2.7%)
▪ Total Lodging: $380 (+5.3%)
o Revenue per Available room (RevPAR)
▪ Hotels: $294 (+1.7%)
▪ Alt. Lodging: $287 (+7.8%)
▪ Total Lodging: $222 (+10.9%)
Research compiled and published by Discover The Palm Beaches (DTPB), can only be reproduced through expressed written approval from the DTPB Research Department. The underlining methodologies, algorithms, formulas and data used are considered a TRADE SECRET. For questions please contact research@thepalmbeaches.com.
Definitions:
Hotel Rooms The number of hotel rooms that are available on any day of the week. This number increases as new properties open.
Hotel Room Nights Available The number of hotel rooms multiplied by the number of nights in a given period a room is available to sell, such as a month or week. This number represents the total available hotel lodging capacity for The Palm Beaches.
Hotel Room Nights Sold The number of rooms sold over a given period. This is the total demand for hotel rooms in The Palm Beaches.
Shared Lodging is described as any accommodation other than typical hotels and resorts without front office staffing
Shared Lodging Rooms The number of shared lodging properties multiplied by the number of rooms per property. This number represents all the alternative lodging options competing with hotel rooms.
Shared Lodging Room Nights (RNs) Sold The number of shared lodging listings booked multiplied by the number of nights and number rooms. This is the total demand for alternative lodging options in The Palm Beaches.
Total Room Nights (RNs) Sold– The sum of Hotel Room Nights Sold and Shared Lodging Room Nights Sold. This is the total demand for overnight lodging in The Palm Beaches.
Room Nights (RNs) Market Share-The percentage of hotel room nights sold within the state of Florida. This indicates the size of The Palm Beaches hotel market and relative performance.
Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) - Total room revenue divided by the total number of available rooms. See Room Revenue, Rooms Available. Room Revenue/Rooms Available = RevPAR.
Total Lodging Revenue The number of room nights sold multiplied by the average daily rate (ADR)
12 Month Moving Average (12MMA) - The value of any given month is computed by averaging the value of that month and the 11 preceding months. This is used to eliminate seasonality
Rolling 12 Months The sum of the current month and 11 preceding months. This is used to eliminate seasonality
Average Daily Rate (ADR) - A measure of the average rate paid for rooms sold, calculated by dividing room revenue by rooms sold. ADR = Room Revenue/Rooms Sold. This indicates a travelers willingness to pay for lodging in The Palm Beaches
Occupancy Percentage of available rooms sold during a specified time period. Occupancy is calculated by dividing the number of rooms sold by rooms available. Occupancy = Rooms Sold / Rooms Available. This indicates the health of the lodging market in The Palm Beaches
Rank The placement of The Palm Beaches versus 14 Florida markets (Palm Beach, Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward, Collier, Lee, Sarasota, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Brevard, Volusia, Orlando (Orange/Osceola), Jacksonville (Duval, St. Johns), Panhandle)
Website User The total number of unique individuals accessing ThePalmBeaches.com in a given month. This is a leading indicator of interest and intent to visit The Palm Beaches as a result of DTPB promotional efforts
Research compiled and published by Discover The Palm Beaches (DTPB), can only be reproduced through expressed written approval from the DTPB Research Department. The underlining methodologies, algorithms, formulas and data used are considered a TRADE SECRET. For questions please contact research@thepalmbeaches.com.
DTPB OBJECTIVES 2024 – 2025
Leisure/Consumer
• Generate 1,200,000,000 Advertising Impressions
• Generate 4,200,000 in Website Users (New Metric)
• Increase Consumer and Travel Industry database to 470,000
• Generate 250,000,000 Earned Media Impressions
• Generate 7,500,000 Social Engagements
Meetings & Conventions
• Book 175,000 DTPB only room nights (Hotel Meetings Leads)
• Generate 52,500 Group Level Booked Room Nights Convention Center Shared
• Generate 40,000 Group Level Actual FY Room Night for Convention Center Shared
• Generate 95 participants in Destination Reviews
• Generate 105 Destination Site Participants
470,000
478,029
1 Exceeded annual goal in October 2024 as a result of the Council’s annual New York City media event and subsequent article published in Forbes (UVM: 99,621,955)
2 New performance indicator as of 10/1/24. Previous year totals were not measured. The Council expects to outperform this goal as it was set prior to the establishment of the ArtiGras Podcast partnership.
3 Meta (Facebook and Instagram) now only provides “views” as a metric over “impressions.” Impressions measure how many times content is seen, while views measure how many times people engage with that content
In March, cultural tourism ads were placed across digital, print, out-of-home (OOH), radio, broadcast and connected TV, and social media platforms. The campaign, which features the tagline “So Much Culture, So Little Time,” targets potential travelers and arts lovers from the Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X, and Baby Boomer generations. March is the last month of the Council’s Fall/Winter Fly Market campaign targeting audiences in New York, New Jersey, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Boston, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Houston, and Austin, and in drive markets including Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Ft. Myers, Naples, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville and Atlanta. The digital advertising campaign promoting the Palm Beach County Black Heritage Trail also continued in March, and the first ad promoting Palm Beach County Open Studios appeared in the Spring issue of Florida Design magazine.
The remaining FY25 co-op advertising packages sold out by the end of the month, including all MOSAIC packages. This year’s co-op offerings included OOH placements in the baggage claim at Palm Beach International Airport (two-month periods, Oct. 2024-Sept. 2025), :30 second commercials during primetime programming on South Florida PBS (monthly, Oct. 2024 – Sept. 2025), full page print ads in the Council’s art&culture magazine (3x/year), and in upcoming MOSAIC-themed print and digital vehicles (April/May 2025).
The in-flight WiFi advertising campaign on JetBlue with our partner, Palm Beach International Airport, completed its 30-day run in March. The campaign had a guaranteed impression rate of 20,000 but enjoyed an extra 1,051 added-value impressions at no extra cost. Compared to last year’s partnership, the campaign had a substantially higher CTR of 87.8%, outperforming the 2024 insertion by 52%. This result shows the audience was very interested in learning more about The Palm Beaches and PBIA. The audience also remained engaged with our content upon activation of their WiFi access, as the campaign tracked 100 referrals to our cultural partners. The ads appeared on inbound flights from Boston, Hartford, Newark, JFK, LGA, Providence, DCA, Westchester and LAX airports.
Preparation for MOSAIC 2025 and Palm Beach County Open Studios continued in March with the Council’s agency of record, Push. These campaigns target drive market audiences during the months of April and May, with a focus on multigenerational families. This year’s MOSAIC campaign will include participation by 29 cultural partners who have submitted 33 offers and experiences, another new record for the Council’s annual Month of Shows, Art, Ideas and Culture. Palm Beach County Open Studios has also confirmed a record 112 artists for the May 17-18 event.
The Council plans to launch the MOSAIC advertising campaign the first week of April, driving traffic to MOSAICPBC.com (and subsequently OPENSTUDIOSPBC.com). MOSAIC OOH ad placements include Brightline stations and onboard trains, billboards along I-95, and vehicle wraps on Ride Circuit in
select cities. Digital placements through Google, Meta (social media), and CTV will be enhanced by print placements in regional and local publications. A separate campaign promoting Open Studios will launch April 15 and will also be seen on vehicle wraps and in digital and print placements. Printed collateral to support both the MOSAIC celebration and the self-guided Open Studios will be distributed by late April to strategic partners and Visitor Information Centers through The Palm Beaches.
The Council identified two hotel partners in March and will be working to secure more for collaborations in support of MOSAIC. Plans include distribution of our Shades of Culture pool floats and other marketing materials through hotel concierge and/or activities desks. In return, the MOSAIC web page will highlight our hotel partners and include a link to Discover The Palm Beaches’ hotel discounts web page. Additionally, the Council began a partnership with Garden District Taproom in downtown West Palm Beach. The Taproom will be serving a MOSAIC Blonde Ale (with MOSAIC branded pint glasses, while supplies last) from late April through the end of May and is working with the Council to host a social media influencer kickoff party featuring our MOSAIC 2025 artist and some of our MOSAIC partners, including 561 Music Festival. The Council plans to offer complimentary FAM tours to the social media influencers who attend the kickoff event to garner both local and drive-market engagement in the month-long celebration.
On March 13 and 27, the second and third episodes of Season 2 of The ArtiGras Podcast, a partnership with the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce and the annual ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival, was broadcast. The second episode featured Palm Beach County-based painter Kyle Lucks and explored his journey as an artist. The third episode featured Sandra Raffaelli, a creative philanthropist, artist, and social entrepreneur, who is also the CEO of aZul – Fashion, Art & Design, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to empowering adults with developmental disabilities through fashion and design. (Views of the March video podcasts will be reported in next month’s report.) The Council provided all Season 1 episodes to the Film Commission for PBTV and will work on cross-promotional opportunities in the coming months.
The giant Shades of Culture remained onsite at the Arts & Wellness Space behind the Council’s headquarters in downtown Lake Worth Beach the entire month of March, following February’s Street Painting Festival activities. As noted in a previous report, the Council launched a series of programs focused on the connection between the arts and physical and mental wellbeing to activate the outdoor space (programs in March are detailed in the Sector Support section below). On March 31, the Council moved the Shades of Culture to the Kravis Center (corner of Okeechobee Blvd. and Sapodilla Ave.) where it will remain on view through the end of May in support of MOSAIC 2025.
The Council also continued to support work on the county’s Tourism Master Plan in March.
In the month of March, the Council’s PR agency of record, Sharp, coordinated a national influencer FAM visit, planned for FAM tours to support MOSAIC 2025, and submitted relevant organizations for consideration in upcoming issues of top-tier publications.
Influencer Maddie Smith of @onthemovewithmad (239k followers) visited The Palm Beaches from March 9-11 as part of the Council’s FY25 Fly Market influencer campaign. Sharp developed her itinerary and secured accommodations, flights, and experiences in collaboration with the following organizations: Mounts Botanical Garden, Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, Arts Garage, Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, Norton Museum of Art, The Society of the Four Arts, and CityPlace. During her visit, Maddie shared 17 Instagram stories, 4 Instagram Reels, 1 In-Feed Carousel, and 2 TikToks, generating an impressive 591,039 impressions to date.
Sharp also drafted a MOSAIC teaser press release to be distributed in early April, highlighting “top deals” and noteworthy Open Studios locations. In tandem, the agency compiled a targeted media list, including national, local, broadcast, and drive market outlets, for targeted pitching outreach in early April. The agency also reached out to local television stations to explore featuring MOSAIC and Open Studios in live segments or scheduled in-studio appearances.
In March, the Council distributed press releases announcing upcoming exhibitions, achieving local editorial coverage. The Council also distributed a press release highlighting its recent advocacy efforts in support of the cultural sector, timed to the state legislative session.
Additionally, the Council responded to inquiries and interview requests from local media about the state of the local cultural sector. Dave Lawrence was quoted in a The Palm Beach Daily News (UVM: 221,642; Circ. 4,000) article that was published on March 16 titled “Five years later: Palm Beach County arts groups take lessons from pandemic challenges” as well as in a March 10 article that appeared in The Palm Beach Post (UVM: 2.5 million) about the future of the former Carefree Theatre site (“New plans for old Carefree Theatre site in West Palm Beach omit movie venue entirely”).
Dave Lawrence and Jennifer Sullivan attended Palm Beach County Days in Tallahassee on March 3-5 to advocate for the arts and tourism sectors. The team had 11 scheduled meetings with Senate and House representatives and their staff over the course of three days, including a meeting with Secretary of State Cord Byrd. Additional meetings included colleagues at the Division of Art & Culture, Florida Cultural Alliance, and CoCA, the local arts agency for Tallahassee.
The Council also participated in receptions hosted by the Economic Council, Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches, and Pittman Law Group. The Council and Discover The Palm Beaches co-hosted a private dinner with the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce, and collaborated on the county’s signature reception in the Capitol Courtyard.
The Council sponsored local performing artist Jason Colannino and the 4 Peace Band (see photo, left) to travel and perform during the reception.
The Council continues to monitor bills and funding allocations that impact the arts and tourism sectors during the legislative session, following up with Palm Beach County Delegation members and key committee members across the state to advocate in a timely manner.
The Council supported TDC Board Chair Mayor Marino at the Mayor’s Ball on March 15. The Council and Discover The Palm Beaches sponsored a table at the event to benefit the Homeless Coalition, and provided an arts and tourism basket for the silent auction.
On March 11, the Council hosted an Institute for Cultural Advancement (ICA) professional development program titled “Surveying to Build Relationships, Relevancy, and Audiences.” Surale Phillips of DRMTM presented this workshop on crafting surveys to help attendees from the cultural sector learn how to build connections with their audiences, uncover insights and drive engagement with their brand. The Council sponsored the following cultural events in our community during the month of March:
• Torrey Island BBQ Festival – Held this year on March 22, the annual festival drives tourism in the Belle Glade community, featuring a Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) sanctioned BBQ competition, an airboat showdown,
nationally sanctioned cornhole tournaments, agricultural Olympics, rum tastings, beer trucks, unique vendors, kids' activities, live music and more.
• Compass Business Alliance Sponsor Reception / Palm Beach Pride - The Council’s Community Engagement and Marketing teams worked with Compass to host the Palm Beach Pride Sponsor Reception at the Council’s headquarters on March 19. Additionally, the Council participated in Palm Beach Pride (March 29-30) by distributing branded rainbow-colored tote bags, “Fans of Culture”, and information on upcoming exhibitions.
• Black Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County 2nd Annual Women’s History Month Breakfast - The Council hosted this breakfast at its headquarters on March 20, which honored anthropologist Dr. Alisha Winn and entrepreneur Josi Studstill for their professional achievements. The breakfast also featured guest speaker Dr. Linda Collymore, an entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker.
The Community Engagement team successfully launched programming in the newly branded Arts & Wellness Space behind its headquarters and will be working with Palm Beach County-based cultural organizations, artists and wellness professionals to present free cultural and wellness programming for the public. The following programs occurred in March:
• "Let's Move: Sweat & Serenity" - On March 22, Digital Vibez brought fitness programming to the Arts & Wellness Space. The event featured lively music, in which attendees participated in Zumba, Pilates, and Yoga throughout the morning. The event also featured wellness vendors who provided free samples of their products and services.
• “Slow Flow Yoga and Sound Bath” - Dakota Dawkins of Song of the Soul Collective will lead yoga and sound bath sessions each week on Tuesday and Friday mornings at 9 am (see photo, right).
Also in support of the sector, Council staff members attended exhibitions, performances and special events at South Florida PBS, MacArthur Beach State Park, Palm Beach Zoo, Boca Raton Museum of Art, Society of the Four Arts, Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, Palm Beach County Convention Center (Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary), The Hangar, Bryant Park and other locations.
March Activity Report 2025
The Palm Beach County Sports Commission’s collection of events in April reveals a strong month for sports events and tourism. Our Sports Commission is supporting 22 events during the month of April, representing 13 different sports. The room night demand for April totals 30,551.
Leading tourism drivers include the James Hardie Pro Football Invitational, which continues The Palm Beaches streak of hosting the PGA TOUR Champions circuit. The PGA Champions debuted in The Palm Beaches during February of 2007 and have enjoyed nearly two decades of The Palm Beaches. Equestrian Sports Productions Spring Series includes the USEF Premier “AA” and Jumper Level 6 & FEI 13 events, which will generated over 12,000 room nights. The Sports Commission is partnering with Florida Atlantic University to host Palm Beach County’s first national Esports competition. This event will take place in FAU Arena and is expected to attract hundreds of competitors and thousands of spectators from across the nation.
Sports Commission FY 25, (April Projections)
• 22 events
• 30,551 room nights
• Average room nights per event = 1,525
• 9.8 % increase in room nights over the same time in FY 24 (27,557 room nights in FY24)
• Projected hotel revenue = $8,563,445
• Projected bed tax = $513,807
NCAA Division II Men’s Golf National Championship
Hold NCAA Host Call with NCAA Championship Manager, Golf Committee, Palm Beach Atlantic University, PGA National Resort, and PBCSC staff
Finalize recruitment of volunteers for live scoring, checkpoint officials, and tournament personnel needed and assign roles as needed
Determine signage needs and place order in conjunction with NCAA
Determine LOC apparel needs and place order in conjunction with NCAA
Boca Raton Bowl
Prepare and distribute RFP for Sponsor Golf Outing to be held in October prior to bowl game
Coordinate Sponsor Golf Outing in conjunction with ESPN Events and ESPN West Palm
James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational
Host Sports Tourism Update in partnership with PGA Tour Champions event which features Pro Football Hall of Famers
• Sunshine State Open
• USTA National Men’s 70, 85, 90 Clay Court Championships
• Prospect Wire Florida Fall Classic
• Prospect Select Fall World Series
• Perfect Game Summer Series
• Columbus Day Discovery Showdown
• World Comes to the Palm Beaches
• Perfect Game WWBA World Championship
• USTA Columbus Day Open
• Men’s Senior Baseball League
• International Rush Cup
• I Do Beach Tennis ITF World Tour 2024
• Association of Pickleball Professionals Boca Raton Open
• Delray Beach Pickleball Classic
• Equestrian Holiday & Horses Circuit
• Battle Youth National Championship
• “Little Mo” Internationals in Florida
• Garden of Life Palm Beaches Marathon
• Hardball 360 Fall Tournament
• Delray Beach Riptide Fall Tournaments
• World Pickleball Classic
• Winter Equestrian Festival
• Paradise Puck Series
• Florida RUSH
• Boca Raton International Masters
• USA BMX Sunshine State Nationals
• Florida Exposure Cup
• TGL Presented by SoFi
• Gauntlet of Polo
• USA Fencing 2025 Regional Youth Championship – Battle at the Beach
• Delray Beach Open
• Junior Tour Powered by Under Armour Winter National Championship
• East Coast Championships SoFlo Nationals
• Palm Beach Challenge College & International Baseball Festival
• Development Player League (DPL) The Summit
• James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational
• Palm Beach Gardens Spring Classic
• Little Mo East Regionals
• FuelTech 2025 Hydrodrag Nationals/World Championships
• Delray ITF Championships
• South Florida Soul Rodeo
• Palm Brach Spartan Sprint Weekend
• Sunshine State Games Lacrosse Championships
• NPC Florida Grant Prix
• Briana Marie Cox Memorial Tournement
• Extreme Kayak Fishing
• USTA National Womens Clay Court Championship
• Men’s Senior Baseball Stars and Stripes
• World Pickleball Convention, Conference and Championships
• Florida State Golf Association (FSGA) 108th Amateur Championship
The Palm Beach County Sports Commission (PBCSC) is deploying an aggressive sales and sports development effort to increase the number of sports tourisms generating events taking place in The Palm Beaches. The PBCSC continues to cultivate relationships with event owners, as well as identify, solicit, secure, and retain sports events to grow room night actualization. Below is a recap of sports development efforts that have taken place during FY25.
A primary mechanism for event solicitation is through the Event Bid and Development process. To recognize potential bid opportunities, the PBCSC will be at the forefront of the industry and engage with event owners. Bid submission is a highly effective tool to recruit sporting events. Attached is a comprehensive list of the bids that have been submitted in FY 25, and below is a breakdown of the development efforts over the past month:
• EDP Spring Kick Off FL
o January 24th & 25th , 2026
o 70 Teams, 1,000 Participants
o 800 Projected Room Nights
o Jupiter Community Park
• SFWGA Winter Color Guard
o March 2026
o 50 Teams
o 1500 Participants
o 700 Projected Room Nights
o Florida Atlantic University Gym or Palm Beach County Convention Center
• Major League Baseball – Players Way (National Player Series)
o June – July 2025
o 500–800 athletes
o 75–90 coaches
o 1000 Projected Room Nights
o 20–25 MLBPA members (retired MLB players as field scouts)
o Calusa Park
• Major League Baseball – Players Way (National Elite Camps)
o August – September 2025
o 300–400 athletes
o 50–60 coaches
o 10–12 MLBPA members
o 1000 Projected Room Nights
o Calusa Park & Lake Catherine Sports Complex
• Justin Gatlin National Invitational – Track & Field
o June 14th & 15th, 2025
o 500–800 athletes
o 75–90 coaches
o 1000 Projected Room Nights
o Dwyer High School or Park Vista High School
• 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Team Base Camp Training
o June 14th – July 7th, 2025
o 100 Participants
o 5,000 + Projected Room Nights
o The Gardens North County District Park
• Activision Call of Duty League Major 3
o April 24th – 27th, 2025
o 12 Teams 70 Players
o 1,000 Rooms
o Florida Atlantic University
• USA Field Hockey National Hockey Festival
o November 24 – 26, 2025
o 130 participating Teams, 2,000+ Athletes
o 3,200 Projected Room Nights
o National Polo Center
• 2025 Davis Cup Team 2nd Round Qualifier
o September 7th – 14th, 2025
o 14 Teams
o 2,000 Projected Room Nights
o Delray Beach Tennis Center
When trying to bring events to Palm Beach County, engaging event rights holders to conduct a site visit or familiarization tour is one of the most beneficial event development strategies. Site visits allow for an event owner to explore potential sports venues while experiencing Palm Beach County’s tourism assets, such as hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Attached is a comprehensive list of the site visits that have been conducted in FY 25, and below is a breakdown of site visits conducted over the past month:
• March 26th, 2025 |Treasure Coast Sports Commission/City of Palm Beach Gardens/ Sandpiper Resort – 2026 FIFA World Cup Team Base Camp Discussion
Scott Glinski and James Taylor of the Palm Beach County Sports Commission attended the James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational Media Day which was a premier opportunity for professionals across sports media, business, and marketing to network and gain firsthand insights into the evolving landscape of professional golf. This exclusive event gathered industry leaders, Hall of Fame legends, and key decision-makers, providing unparalleled access to interviews, discussions, and behind-the-scenes content.
These functions provide insight into industry trends and innovations, from sports marketing strategies to advancements in athlete performance and media broadcasting. Engaging in conversations with experts can lead to new collaborations, event opportunities, and a deeper understanding of the business side of professional sports This was a great development opportunity platform to engage with other top-tier professionals.
October 1, 2024 - September 30, 2025
The Palm Beach County Sports Commission’s mission is to champion Palm Beach County as a premier sports tourism destination and the marketing department supports that mission through strategic communications, marketing, public relations, a plethora of digital media services, and more.
Stories written and published by the Sports Commission in February:
• The Palm Beaches to Host Development Player League (DPL) Soccer Showcase
• James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational
• Palm Beach County to Host 2025 ITF World Tennis Masters Tour World Championships Presented by Baptist Health
• Palm Beach County Sports Hall of Fame Annual Sport Awards Winners Announced
• The Palm Beaches Spartan Sprint Weekend Returns for Seventh Year
In March, these email blasts achieved an average open rate just north of 14%. The Palm Beach County Sports Commission received several media mentions across digital, print, and online platforms in March 2025. These mentions contributed to a total estimated audience of 2,041,695 and garnered slightly over $20,000 in earned media value. Coverage included pieces from The Palm Beach Post, WPEC, WPBF, and more.
Social Media Statistics
Across all social media platforms that the Palm Beach County Sports Commission operates, these are the performance statistics for the month of November In November 2024, our social media performance saw notable growth across key metrics compared to October 2024, emphasizing the effectiveness of increased content and engagement strategies.
Audience Growth:
o Total followers across platforms increased by 0.25% to 25,612 Interactions:
o Interactions are up 157% =while shares went up 152% in March Impressions (Reach):
o Total impressions from social media were 29,809
In February, the new brand campaign for the Palm Beach County Sports Commission continued its rollout through the Sports Commission’s event partners including the Delray Beach Open and Spartan Race, among others.
The campaign showcases the Palm Beach County Sports Commission’s new slogan, "Unrivaled in Every Way," reinforcing the county’s status as a premier sports destination. Through on-site branding, digital promotions, and collaborative social media efforts, the campaign reached thousands of athletes, spectators, and sports enthusiasts.
The main advertisement (left) is used primarily in print publications such as program guides while the social media sized images (seen below) are distributed to event partners so they may circulate our messaging to expanded audiences for the Sports Commission.
This March, the campaign was visible in numerous events’ marketing and communication including the Spartan Race, ITF Seniors, James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational, and more.
Spartan Race, an endurance event with an estimated economic impact of $3.3 million, incorporated not only the Sports Commission branding but the new campaign in both pre-event and in-event communications. See examples below:
The Palm Beach County Sports Commission’s marketing and media efforts will bring a strong spotlight to the sports tourism industry and impacts that enhance quality of life in The Palm Beaches. PBC TV, which provides county government information and educational programming to all cable subscribers in Palm Beach County, will launch a 30-minute program dedicated to our Sports Commission this coming April or May. This program features interviews with Palm Beach County Sports Commission executive director, George Linley and Palm Beach County Sports Tourist Development Council executive director, Emanuel Perry. This 30-minute program will spotlight the Palm Beach County Sports Commission’s mission and approaches in creating building the local economy and providing opportunities and family entertainment for residents. The program also takes a deep dive into Palm Beach County’s sports landscape, including regional, nation, and global events, local community initiatives, and attributes that make The Palm Beaches a premier destination for sports.
PBC TV, which airs on Channel 20 and streams live pbcgov.org, is also available on television to most residents that reside in Palm Beach County. This TV product will be distributed to the sports event industry, including current and potential partners. Furthermore, this media will educate our residents about the opportunities to consume and participate in the many sports event offerings taking place in The Palm Beaches.
In addition to developing the 30-minute television program about the Palm Beach County Sports Commission, PBC TV also spotlighted the Sports Commission in the March Program Guide, which is a print and digital publication that is distributed countywide. The March Program Guide educated our residents about our Sports Commission in addition to spotlighting the Major League Baseball (MLB) Spring Training season taking place at Cacti Park in The Palm Beaches and Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium.
2,127,104 Monthly 5,600 29,809 50,000 2,041,695
193,654,939 32,600 1,255,774 136,600 192,128,965
The cameras will be rolling as BarrettJackson, The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions®, returns to the South Florida Fairgrounds from April 24-26, 2025, delivering its signature high-octane automotive lifestyle experience. History Channel and FYI will broadcast the action live over all three days, while BarrettJackson’s website will feature a dedicated livestream for viewers worldwide. In total there will be 20 hours of live broadcast coverage coupled with 18 hours of encore presentations.
Since 2003, The Palm Beaches has been a key East Coast destination Jackson, with Chairman and CEO Craig Jackson calling Palm Beach County, Florida, “a second home for our Barrett-Jackson family.” This year’s event will once again fuel the passion of collectors and fans, featuring an electrifying auction block, interactive exhibits, an exhibitor marketplace, and adrenaline-pumping thrill rides on the Barrett-Jackson Performance Track.
Last year, The Bright Life of The Palm Beaches host Linda Bright took viewers inside the excitement, capturing the roar of the engines and the energy of the auction. That episode is available to watch anytime On Demand on The Palm Beaches TV
The Palm Beaches continues to solidify its reputation as a premier destination for live sports production, with major broadcasts bringing national and regional exposure this spring. From the ballparks to the golf courses and tennis courts, Palm Beach County played host to productions reaching tens of millions of viewers across top networks around the world.
FanDuel Sports Network, Space City Home Network, MASN, and MLB Network were among the key broadcasters providing coverage for Spring Training baseball. Also, The Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches delivered to a global audience via NBC, Golf Channel, Peacock, and ESPN+. Meanwhile, the Tennis Channel aired the Delray Beach Open and FAU Athletics aired its baseball, softball, and basketball games on ESPN+. Adding to the excitement, TGL, the tech-driven golf league backed by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, brought a firstof-its-kind experience to sports entertainment in the County.
The award-winning Pamplin Film Company (PFC) brings its third feature film to PalmBeachCounty. Following the success of Movie Money CONFIDENTIAL (2022) and BURT REYNOLDS: The Last Interview (2024), PFC secured financing for The Jesus Project, which began its three-week shoot in March. The film, written and directed by Rick Pamplin, is produced by Maggie Pamplin and Hollywood producer Scott duPont. The production team includes industry veterans: casting director Ellen Jacoby (True Lies) and financial consultant Louise Levison (The Blair Witch Project). Local talent, including location manager Alastair Hunt (Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull) is also involved.
“After extensive location scouts and shooting elsewhere for years …we’ve found Palm Beach County to be the most photogenic, enthusiastic and welcoming film location we’ve experienced,” says Maggie Pamplin. “In fact, we have two more feature films in development slated to be shot in Palm Beach County.”
Breakaway – Polo in The Palm Beaches has been recognized with the prestigious LIT Platinum Award, celebrating excellence in entertainment and advertising. Originally airing on ESPN, this dynamic docu-sports series showcases the worldclass polo scene in Palm Beach County and is now available on demand at The Palm Beaches TV
As polo season hits its peak, all eyes turn to the U.S. Open Polo Championship, returning to Wellington’s National Polo Center April 6-20. The tournament brings together the sport’s top international players for thrilling competition. Matches will stream live on the USPA Polo Network’s digital platforms, with highlights available across USPA social channels. In addition, ESPN will rebroadcast key matchups, leading up to the championship’s national broadcast hosted by veteran ESPN broadcaster Chris Fowler. The finals air on ESPN2 Saturday, April 26, 10:30 a.m. and ESPNEWS Sunday, April 27, 8 p.m.
The adventure travel series Global Child, hosted by Augusto Valverde, showcases Palm Beach County in Season 4, Episode 6: Palm Beach –The Ride of a Lifetime. With stunning scenery, luxury experiences, and a vibrant culture of The Palm Beaches.
Distributed across 15+ streaming platforms, including Tubi, Apple TV, Peacock and The Roku Channel, the series reaches millions worldwide. The Film & Television Commission facilitated three days of production at the Lake Worth Beach Casino and Beach Complex. The journey includes Wellington’s equestrian scene, Palm Beach’s South Ocean Boulevard, Benny’s On The Beach, Peanut Island, and Jupiter’s Dubois Park. Co-hosted by actress Catherine Lidstone, the episode explores the World Polo League with polo enthusiasts Grant and Melissa Ganzi, reinforcing The Palm Beaches as a top destination for sports, luxury, and adventure.
Palm Beach County continues to shine on the national stage, with West Palm Beach’s Exhibit Treal Studios winning the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Short Form (Animated). The Black-owned animation studio, founded by Haitian-American artist and filmmaker Jason “JaFLEU” Fleurant, received the honor for its short film Peanut Headz: Black History Toonz Jackie Robinson.
The victory highlights Palm Beach County’s creative community and further positions the area as a hub for arts and culture. Exhibit Treal Studios’ success not only celebrates Black storytelling in animation but also enhances the county’s reputation as a destination for filmmakers, artists, and media professionals. Reflecting on the moment, Fleurant shared, “I’ve been watching the NAACP Image Awards since I was 10 years old. I’m 40 now, and to stand here as a
Luxury towel brand Weezie Towels embraces the timeless elegance of Palm Beach County in its latest collection, The Spring Break Shop. Featuring plush, high-end towels and accessories, the collection is branded with the tagline: “Inspired by iconic Palm Beach, poolside.”
Known for its signature soft and stylish designs, Weezie captures the vibrant, resort-like essence of The Palm Beaches, making every poolside moment feel like a luxury getaway. The collection’s campaign highlights sunsoaked leisure, chic patterns and the effortless sophistication that defines the region. With Palm Beach County serving as the inspiration, Weezie Towels continues to blend function with fashion, offering pieces perfect for beach days, poolside lounging and warm-weather.
Make sure you’re subscribed to The Palm Beaches TV NOW (PBTV NOW) YouTube channel, because April is filled with new adventures! Host Theo Dorsey begins the month with Wildlife in The Palm Beaches, showcasing Loggerhead Marinelife Center, Busch Wildlife and Mantee Lagoon. As excitement builds for the 2025 Palm Beaches Student Showcase of Films, a recap on the 2024 film competition and award show puts a spotlight on the state’s emerging talent. Foodies can indulge in Culinary Experiences in The Palm Beaches, while pickleball enthusiasts will rally for The Palm Beaches Loves Pickleball episode, which will showcase world-class facilities like the Palm Beach Gardens Tennis & Pickleball Center and Delray Beach Pickleball Club. The Bright Life in The Palm Beaches, hosted by LindaBright, brings April’s edition to a close with a feature of the luxurious and vibrant lifestyle that makes ThePalmBeaches unique.
Palm Beach County resident Patricia Bonis is looking to bring her incredible life story, which includes the kidnapping of her then–2-and-4-year-old children, to the big screen. The story, which was published in the 2024 novel Jeddah Bride: A Memoir, follows Patricia, an American woman who falls in love with a wealthy Saudi man, only to find herself trapped. After years of struggle, she builds a new life in America until her children are kidnapped. The story explores themes of love, sacrifice and resilience set against the backdrop of international high society. “Every person I meet says the story feels like a movie or TV series,” Bonis says. “People tell me they stay up all night reading the book. The book gets wilder and wilder. It would be a dream come true for it to be made into a movie or TV series.”
Bonis was recently interviewed on Montel Williams’ podcast and had her story shared in The Daily Mail.
Filming with drones in Palm Beach County offers an incredible way to capture its stunning beaches, estates and landscapes. Despite President Donald Trump’s frequent visits that restrict flying in certain air space, the Film & Television Commission (FTC) works with local municipalities to simplify the process through its One-Stop Permitting Process.
FTC permitting coordinators work directly with local and federal agencies to navigate regulations efficiently, ensuring filmmakers secure the necessary approvals without unnecessary delays. While FAA compliance is required, including drone registration, pilot certification, and airspace authorization, the FTC team streamlines the paperwork and approval process to ensure a smooth and efficient permitting experience. Visit the FTC’s website for more information about Filming with a Drone.
Dolores Fernandez Alonso, President and CEO of South Florida PBS (SFPBS), has been elected Chair of America's Public Television Stations (APTS), effective Feb. 25, 2025. In her role at SFPBS, Alonso oversees WPBT and WXEL, serving approximately 6.3 million viewers across South Florida.
Through her leadership of SFPBS, Alonso has demonstrated a strong commitment to The Palm Beaches community through a series that celebrates the vibrant communities like On the Town in The Palm Beaches with Frank Licari. Her election to the APTS board underscores her dedication to advancing public media both locally and nationally. As chairman of the APTS board, she will help drive public television’s mission of education, public safety, and civic leadership. Ensuring free access to these essential services, public TV fosters lifelong learning, preserves local stories, and connects communities to address key issues strengthening its vital role in society.
The South Florida Film Forum brought together the region’s film and television community for two days of networking, education, and inspiration. The event highlighted the importance of fostering diverse voices in storytelling, uniting emerging and established creatives with industry leaders and Hollywood insiders.
From March 29 - 30 attendees participated in panels, workshops, and film screenings, gaining insights from experts like HBO’s Jay Roewe, actress Nika King (Euphoria), and producer Andrew Hevia (Moonlight). Presented by WEG, the Urban Film Festival, Film Lauderdale, and others, the Forum underscored South Florida’s growing reputation as a filmmaking hub. “This event is more than a gathering it’s a movement to uplift our creative community,” said co-founder Eddy Moon. To learn more visit southfloridafilmforum.com
South Florida PBS hosted an exclusive screening of On the Town in The Palm Beaches with Frank Licari’s latest “Working in The Palm Beaches.” The installment captures the industries driving Palm Beach County, from finance and agriculture to shared workspaces and nonprofits. The screening was held at theEls Center for Autism in Jupiter, and featured local favorites like Bread by Johnny, Rose Trolley, and the world-class neuroscience institute, Max Planck Florida. Guests got a firsthand look at the businesses shaping the community. The episode aired on WPBT on March 24 and March 30 as well as on WXEL on March 27 and March 29. In case you missed it, stream this and all the episodes from the series On Demand on ThePalmBeaches.TV.
Gene Hackman’s versatility and dedication to his craft made him one of Hollywood's most respected actors with performances remain powerful today. Hackman passed away in February 2025 at 95, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of over 70 roles that continue to inspire and entertain. In 2001, Hackman brought his brilliance to the romantic crime comedy Heartbreakers, filmed at iconic Palm Beach locations like The Breakers, The Glades, Avenue. The Breakers’ timeless elegance added a luxurious flair to the con artist caper. Directed by David Mirkin, the film starred Sigourney Weaver and Jennifer Love Hewitt as a scheming mother daughter duo. With a $35 million budget, it debuted at number one in the U.S. box office, earning $11.8 million its opening weekend and grossing over $57 million worldwide.
Palm Beach County, known for beaches, estates and landscapes, is also home to some of the most cinematic libraries in Florida! These architectural gems are rich with character, and are a location scouter’s dream.
Spanish River Library, BocaRaton – A Mediterranean-style with breathtaking waterfront views, elegant staircases and lush outdoor spaces perfect for upscale, academic and big- event storytelling.
Mandel Public Library, West Palm Beach – A vibrant urban hub with sleek, modern design, dynamic workspaces and a prime downtown location. Ideal for tech driven narratives, fast-paced city scenes or contemporary storytelling.
Canyon Branch Library, Boynton Beach – The newest star in the lineup, this state-of-the-art library features striking architecture, bright interiors and a futuristic aesthetic perfect for innovative, modern, or high-energy productions.
With Palm Beach County’s Film & Television’s easy one-stop permitting process, these libraries are ready for their close-up. Whether you're shooting a scholarly drama, a high-tech thriller or an inspiring documentary, the County’s libraries offer the perfect cinematic setting. Find a location for your production by visiting the FTC’s locations database here
The 30th annual Palm Beaches Student Showcase of Films (SSOF) received a record-breaking 617 entries from 85 schools throughout the state of Florida and the panel of 54 international judges have selected the finalists!
Each year, the SSOF award show attracts close to 700 students, their families, industry professionals, celebrity presenters and VIPs like Vanilla Ice. Finalists will have the opportunity to showcase their projects and connect with talented high school and college filmmakers from across the state. The winners of all categories will be announced and over $30K in cash and prizes will be presented at the live show. The red carpet rolls out at 9:30 a.m. and the award show begins at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, April 25, at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre.
Mark your milestone in style with timeless and elegant "shine bright in white" attire, honoring the 30th anniversary celebration. Seating is limited. Click here to RSVP by Friday, April 4 to save your seat! For more details on the event, visit our website. For a full list of 2025 finalists, visit pbfilm.com/pressreleases.
Percentage change variances of ± 10% in performance statistics are explained in this section.
1. Production Revenue: A 13% year-over-year increase in production revenue, from $29,732,066 as of February 2024 to $33,658,241 YTD in February 2025, is driven by increased production activity to start the new year, including several high-impact projects. Notable productions in February included a Ray-Ban Meta glasses commercial, a SouthMed | TMG campaign featuring Sylvester Stallone, and a new reality series for a major streaming platform. Also, significant January productions for DraftKings, Mekka Media LLC, and web content from MrBeast’s YouTube channel further contributed to the overall YTD revenue growth.
2. Hotel Room Nights: A 78% YTD increase in Hotel Room Nights is attributed to an increase in visiting production companies conducting business in The Palm Beaches. In February, crews for a new reality series reported 720 hotel room nights. Other notable productions that have significantly contributed to hotel room nights include Frontgate Marketing Inc. out of West Chester, OH, Minus L Productions out of Glen Ridge, FL, Mekka Media LLC out of out of New York, NY, and TNBT Productions Inc. out of Toronto, Canada. These five productions account for 53% of total Hotel Room Nights in 2025.
3. Total Leads: The 34% decline in Total Leads, from 56 as of February 2024 to 37 as of February 2025, is primarily due to the usual slowdown after many of the FTC-sponsored productions wrapped and several leads related to those projects already converted in the previous year. Meanwhile, staff continues to provide lead generation for South Florida Daily and expects numbers in this category to rise and level off later this year as new sponsored programming gets approved in the summer.
4. Lead Responses: A 34% decrease in lead responses aligns with there being less leads to respond to.
5. Lead Conversions: The 36% decline in lead conversions year-over-year aligns with the 34% decline in the development of Total Leads and is a natural shift in demand Last year, leads were generated to support and guide WFLX’s South Florida Daily show in its inaugural season. Now, in its second year, the show requires less direct input However, staff is staying on top of new events and local happenings to identify fresh leads for WFLX and other production partners. In addition, there are some leads that were made during the first two months of the year that we expect to convert in the coming months. So far this year, 23 of 37 leads have converted into production business in Palm Beach County (62% conversion rate)
6. Website Unique Visitors: A 75% increase in website traffic highlights the effectiveness of the FTC’s digital marketing initiatives. The recent surge in online engagement suggests that outreach efforts, including targeted advertising and social media campaigns, are successfully driving more traffic to the FTC and PBTV websites
25-052 2 Unfound Films West Palm Beach, FL
The beach at Delray Beach; Beach-side, along A1A / Jimmy Buffett Mem Hwy, between Harbor Dr as Mary MarshmallowBeach
- 700 S Rosemary Ave Suite
FL
West Palm
The Brady Hunter Foundation Fort Lauderdale, FL Mizner Park outdoors (not inside any establishment)
World with Jeff Corwin - tv series on cbs weekends
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2 Peter Santenello N/A The clock tower in Palm Beach, The Breakers, Pans Garden, Worth Ave, Clematis Street in
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2 TMRW Sports Group N/A SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens TGL (Los Angeles x Boston)
2 TMRW Sports Group N/A SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens TGL (Atlanta x Los Angeles)
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2 TMRW Sports Group N/A SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens TGL (The Bay x Jupiter)
2 The Tony Robbins Group California Abacoa directly across from a parking garage Tony Robbins Ad
2 Pop Star Productions West Palm Beach, FL Smoothie Me Please in Riviera Beach What’s Poppin’ PBC
2 Pop Star Productions West Palm Beach, FL Trindy Gourmet in West Palm Beach What’s Poppin’ PBC 5
2 Pop Star Productions West Palm Beach, FL Singer Island at Riviera Beach What’s Poppin’
2 Pop Star Productions West Palm Beach, FL Treehouse rooftap at Canopy in West Palm What’s Poppin’ PBC
2 Pop Star Productions West Palm Beach, FL LWB Bonfire and Market (LWB Casino Complex) What’s Poppin’ PBC
2 Pop Star Productions West Palm Beach, FL X Golf in West Palm Beach What’s Poppin’
2 JaqJourney Productions West Palm Beach, FL Lynn University’s Fashion Show in Boca Raton PB a la Mode
2 Jetsetter Films Ft. Lauderdale, FL Full Moon Silent Dance Party, Singer Island (2401 N Ovean Ave, Fest Quest
2 Jetsetter Films Ft. Lauderdale, FL Lunar New Year at the Norton, West Palm Beach Fest
2 Jetsetter Films Ft. Lauderdale, FL LWB Street Painting Festival, Lake Worth Breach Fest Quest
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ProductionCompany
*Afflux Studios Music Videos, Still PhotographyVarious135155Various
*APEX Productions Inc. Television/CommercialsVarious222105Various
*Argonaut Productions Commercials, Corporate VideosVarious225155Various
*ASK Media Productions Videos, Commercials, StillPhotographyVarious205125Various
*Brave Man Media Website Design/Advertising/ Promotional Various196155Various
*Channel 20 TelevisionVarious201400N/A
*Frank Gatto & Associates Streaming, Sports Broadcasts, VariousVarious274750N/A
*G-Star Studios VariousVarious1710550136Various
*Hutton Miller, LLC Commercials/Infomercial s Various1912285Hyatt Delray Place
*JettyProductions VariousVarious171110N/A
*KO-MARProductions VariousVarious21122510Various
*LGW Mediaworks VariousVarious2310205Various
*Majic Robot Studios VariousVarious143510Various
*Media Zone Studios Streaming, Corporate Videos, VariousVarious29150N/A
*Multi Image Group (MIG) VariousVarious261104515Various
*Olympusat TelevisionVarious3114050100Various
*Pathos VariousVarious1417110Various
*Saygo Studios VariousVarious21100Various
*Studio Space / You Create Academy Independent Films, Web SeriesVarious262310Various
*West Palm TV 18 TelevisionVarious25330N/A
*WXTV Channel 34- Sinclair TelevisionVarious22800N/A Totals 448466388326$13,811,683
REVENUE
REVENUE
OPERATING EXPENSES
Palm Beach Convention Center
FINANCIAL OPERATIONS ANALYSIS REPORT-PRIOR YEAR COMPARISON For the Five Months Ending February 2025
Social Media Followers
Facebook - 8,902 (February) to 8,909 (March)
Instagram – 3,692 (February)
LinkedIn - 1,078 (February) to 1,098 (March)
Instagram Monthly Total – DON’T HAVE ACCESS
Interactions –
Impressions -
Reach –
Generate Profile Visits -
Facebook Monthly Total
Interactions – 42 (February) to 50 (March)
Views – 4,651 (February) 6,114 (March)
Post Reach – 84,344 (February) to 77,210 (March)
Link Clicks – 50 (March)
Profile Views - 78 (February) to 89 (March)
Reactions – 92 (February) to 113 (March)
Engagements - 97 (February) to 118 (March)
Impressions - 5,573 (February) to 5,768 (March)
Connections - 740 (February) to 752 (March)
WIFI Analytics - Purple
Engagement Overview
Trump Encourages Christians to Vote; Media Misquotes Him - The New American [google.com]
The New American West Palm Beach Convention Center. The president's speech has been misquoted and mangled by mainstream media and social media alike, falsely
Trump's 'no need to vote' comment disturbing - MinnPost [google.com]
MinnPost Former President Donald Trump speaking at the Turning Point USA Believers' Summit at the Palm Beach County Convention Center on July 26. Credit:
Palm Beach's Emanuel Perry Named in South Florida Business Journal's - Hoodline [google.com] Hoodline Palm Beach County Convention Center. What is this? Report Ad. As reported by The South Florida Business Journal, Perry's achievements extend beyond
Making Connections will be the focus at the ACTRIMS Forum 2025 - Newswise [google.com] Newswise Palm Beach County Convention Center and the Hilton West Palm Beach in Florida. The ACTRIMS Forum 2025 will bring together leading scientists and
Trump tells Christians 'we'll have it fixed so good you won't have to vote' in 2028 - FOX 5 DC [google.com] FOX 5 DC Palm Beach Convention Center on July 26, 2024 in West Palm Beach, Florida. Trump had earlier met with Israeli Prime M. Expand. U.S.-Israeli
Trump explains Christians 'won't have to vote again' comments - Fox 29 [google.com]
Fox 29 Palm Beach Convention Center on July 26, 2024 in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images). Laura Ingraham interview. In the
Trump says Democrats are 'after Catholics,' calls out Harris for her criticism of Knights of Columbus [google.com] Catholic News Agency Palm Beach Convention Center on July 26, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Florida. | Credit: Joe Raedle/Getty Images. Tyler Arnold. By Tyler Arnold
Trump's crypto reserve post sparks rally, dash for currencies | ABS-CBN News [google.com]
ABS-CBN Former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during an election night event at the West Palm Beach Convention Center
Trump to sell 'gold card' US visas for $5 million - EWN [google.com]
EWN West Palm Beach Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, on 6 November 2024. Picture: Jim WATSON/AFP. WASHINGTON - US President Donald Trump
Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary Art Fair | Miami's Community News [google.com]
Miami Community Newspaper ... Palm Beach County Convention Center. PBM+C brings world-class investment-quality works from the 20th and 21st centuries with a roster of
inSIGHT Through Education To Host inSIGHT OUT Event - bocaratonobserver.com [google.com]
The Boca Raton Observer Taking place on March 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, the event will feature digital influencer Lizzy
Canada, Mexico tariffs to go ahead, says Trump, additional 10% slapped on China [google.com]
Just Drinks Donald Trump addresses the crowd during an election night party at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach
Over 300 Nobel Peace nominees counted possibly including Trump | ABS-CBN News [google.com] ABS-CBN West Palm Beach Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, on November 6, 2024. Jim Watson, AFP/File. OSLO, Norway Over 300 people are
4 Subtle Signs Someone Is Fake Rich vs. Actually Rich - AOL.com [google.com]
AOL.com West Palm Beach Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, early on November 6, 2024. (Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP) (Photo by JIM WATSON/AFP
Why West Palm Beach is an idyllic location for the 20th annual Closets Expo [google.com] Woodworking Network This in itself explains why the show returns to the Palm Beach County Convention Center so frequently. But there are other important reasons why
Dr. Sanjay Gupta to headline Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation summit in West Palm [google.com] Palm Beach Daily News Heidi McWilliams, a 10-year Palm Beach resident, is chair of the organization's inaugural event at the Palm Beach County Convention Center
Summit of the Americas takes place in Florida this week - BW Confidential [google.com]
BW Confidential The Summit was previously located at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach. Other trade shows. March 4, 2025. Highlights from
UFC President Dana White says he can fix boxing with new promotion in partnership with Saudis [google.com] Times Union Palm Beach Convention Center, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Fla. Evan Vucci/AP. NEW YORK (AP) TKO Group, the company that already
TKO Group, which houses WWE and UFC, partners with Saudi entertainment authority on ... [google.com] CT Insider Palm Beach Convention Center, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Fla. Evan Vucci/AP. NEW YORK (AP) TKO Group, the company that houses
TKO Group, which houses WWE and UFC, starts boxing promotion in deal with Saudi Arabia [google.com] KSL News Palm Beach Convention Center, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File). 1 photo. 0.;;;. Save Story
8th annual Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary to feature works from Katz, Warhol, Picasso [google.com] Palm Beach Daily News Running from Thursday through Sunday, the fair at the Palm Beach County Convention center will feature a catalogue of nearly 1000 artists.
Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary To Feature Art From Boca Raton And Beyond [google.com] The Boca Raton Observer Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary returns for its eighth edition from March 20-23 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center
10th Annual South Florida Behavioral Health Conference: The Power of Prevention [google.com] The Palm Beach Post Palm Beach County Convention Center. To Mar 23. Mar 28 · Health. The Livelong Experience, March 28th
Step inside innovation: A virtual tour of Sauder Building Products | Woodworking Network [google.com] Woodworking Network Join us on June 11th during the Closets Conference & Expo, which will be held at the Palm Beach Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, for
Unveiling an Unprecedented Hotel Experience | Newswire [google.com] Newswire.com Located in a vibrant downtown, just steps from Palm Beach Convention Center and The Kravis Center, minutes from shopping at CityPlace, Brightline West
The myth of the political mandate - Star Tribune [google.com] Star Tribune Palm Beach Convention Center on Nov. 6, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Fla. (Julia Demaree Nikhinson/The Associated Press). Advertisement. icon Comment
Hurricane Milton Dune Restoration: ERM completed the emergency dune restoration project at Coral Cove. The Coral Cove project placed approximately 25,000 cubic yards of sand to replace what was lost during last year’s storms Protection for nesting sea turtles was coordinated with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Native, salt-tolerant vegetation will be planted for dune stabilization. Dune restoration repairs dune systems that protect the shoreline during hurricane season and provide habitat for critically threatened and endangered species
Shorebird Nesting Season: Staff have been monitoring the Lake Worth Lagoon weekly hoping to observe shorebirds starting to nest. Knowing when eggs are laid helps plan monitoring efforts to observe hatching, plan banding, and estimate chick fledging date. So far, two killdeer nests have been observed American Oystercatchers, which are listed as threatened in Florida, have been spotted demonstrating breeding behavior and should be nesting any day now! Piping plovers and semipalmated plovers have also been observed utilizing restored habitat in the lagoon
Before (non-compliant)
South Lake Worth Inlet (SLWI) Maintenance
Dredging: Mobilization is complete and dredging began the last week of March Approximately 60,000 cubic yards of sand will be placed below the low tide line in the vicinity of Ocean Ridge Hammock Park. Dredging will be conducted 24 hours a day 7 days a week Dredging is expected to be complete by the end of April
After (compliant)
Sea Turtle Nesting Season: Sea turtle nesting season made its start early this year on February 4th , potentially the earliest laid nest in Florida history! ERM staff work with property managers and owners throughout the nesting season to help them achieve compliance with PBC’s Unified Land Development Code Article 14, Chapter A Due to staff’s efforts, compliance tends to increase from the first to the final survey within each season, resulting in a decrease of non-compliance notices issued. ERM staff will continue to closely monitor and enforce lighting compliance throughout the County until the conclusion of sea turtle nesting season on October 31
Prescribed Burn at Hungryland Slough Natural Area: The Natural Areas Burn Crew conducted a 2,186 acre aerial prescribed burn at Hungryland Slough Natural Area The purpose of the burn was for ecological management, wildfire risk reduction, and to maintain the scheduled burn frequency for the site All goals and objectives were achieved during the prescribed burn.
VIRTUAL LIVE FIELD TRIP AT
Spring 2025 Adventure Awaits: ERM biologists will be leading the spring 2025 Adventure Awaits series The adventures lined up for spring include guided hikes, wildlife tracking, bird identification, swamp tromps, trail running, paddles and more. Each event aims to inspire and help connect people with nature. Space is limited and advance registration is required for all of these free events To see the complete listing of events and to reserve your spot, visit pbcerm eventbrite com
PRESCRIBED BURN AT HUNGRYLAND SLOUGH NATURAL AREA
Virtual Live Field Trip at Sawfish Island: ERM staff took more than 100 students virtually through Sawfish Island in the Loxahatchee River - Lake Worth Creek Aquatic Preserve. The field trip presented students with a one-hour exploration of this aquatic wonderland. The students learned about the restoration efforts on the island, including the planting of red mangrove seedlings Then they took a virtual paddleboard ride to the north end of the island where staff showed the students how to use seine nets to monitor marine life. Students viewed several estuary residents including a blue crab, giant red hermit crab, plumed scorpionfish, Atlantic needlefish, queen conch and oysters The video wrapped up with a look at a native bee hotel installed on the beach to encourage native pollinators to make a home on Sawfish Island.
Adventure Awaits: Register NOW for a FREE event at PBCERM.EVENTBRITE.COM!
April 2: INSPIRED BY NATURE LANDSCAPING TALK at PBC Library Gardens Branch
April 3: MIGRATORY BIRD SURVEY HIKE at Limestone Creek Natural Area
April 5: BUTTERFLY HIKE at Juno Dunes Natural Area
April 9: SWAMP TROMP at Pine Glades Natural Area
April 10: FLORIDA GOPHER TORTOISE DAY HIKE at Seacrest Scrub Natural Area
April 15: OFF-TRAIL TOUR at Pondhawk Natural Area
April 16: EXPLORING MEADOWS AND WILDFLOWERS HIKE at Cypress Creek Natural Area
April 19: RUNNING WILD 3.1 MILE TRAIL RUN at Juno Dunes
April 19: BIRDING WITHOUT BINOX at Royal Palm Beach Pines Natural Area
April 22: CELEBRATE EARTH DAY - HIKE THROUGH THE HABITATS at Juno Dunes Natural Area
April 23: MORNING PADDLE at Pine Glades Natural Area
April 24: INVASIVE WEED PULL & PADDLE at Winding Waters Natural Area
April 25: CITY NATURE CHALLENGE BIOBLITZ at Cypress Creek North Natural Area
April 27: CITY NATURE CHALLENGE BIOBLITZ PLANT COMMUNITIES at North Jupiter Flatwoods NA
Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners
(1)EstimatedSeatCapacity;AdjustedInnovata/OAGScheduledseats,actualcapacitymayvary
(2)PercentageChangeinloadfactorisstatedinabsolutedifference
(3)FreightplusmailinUSTons
(4)LandingsplusTakeoffs,includescargocarriers
(5)PerFAATower
Palm Beach CountyDepartment of Airports
846 PBIA, West Palm Beach , FL 33406-1470
www.pbia.org
ENPLANEMENT TRAFFIC REPORT for the period ended February2025
Airline Percentage of Market
1.34%50,131
BreezeAviationGroup,Inc.3,929 0.99%20,035 0.47% PorterAirlines2,081 0.52%6,195 0.15% SunCountry,Inc.aMinnesota946 0.24%7,208 0.17% Bahamasair638 0.16%10,516 0.25%
SilverairlinesLLC- 0.00%12,620 0.30%
TRAFFIC REPORT
for the period ended February2025
Change in Enplanements byAirline
MonthlyAirport Traffic Statistics
West Palm Beach, Florida, United States of America Palm Beach International Airport for the period ended February 2025
*PerFAATower **InmetrictonsasrequiredbyACIreportingstandards includesMailplusFreight
DPBC Wellcoming, LLC $1,500,000, $500,000 11/8/23 12/31/26 R2024 1302 annually, pd in installments
PBCFTC Olympusat $590,000, 118,000 annually Pd in monthly installments
DPBC-Simpleview, LLC Web Based Services R2022-0636 $106,012 annually, pd monthly at $8,834.33.
10/1/23 9/30/23 9/30/24 4-1 yr renewals 2nd renewal
DPBC-Zimmerman, LLC R2018-1121 -Creative Design $840,000 annually pd mo. $70,000 10/1/22 9/30/27 1- 5yr. agreement
DPBC-Madden Preprint Media, LLC Website Design $146,650 phase 1 $98,760 phase 2 Pd monthly at $8,230
initial 2yr agreement with 2 additional 2yr. renewals
DPBC-Zimmerman Agency LLC R2018-1120 Public Relations
@ $16,000 mo. optional services not to
(1) 2-yr renewal one (1) 1-yr renewal with ext. for COVID exceed $58,000 for a total R2021-0160 of $250,000
Culture-Push, Inc.
Marketing Services $201,000 annual fee not to 10/1/21
1 yr. with 2, 2yr. renewals (R2021-0401) (R2022-0788) (R2024-1155) exceed $300,000 including travel and other out-of-pocket
DPBC-Professional $223,160 10/1/23 9/30/24 Convention Management Association (PCMA) (sole Source)R2024-0831
DPBC-Brand USA
Transparent Media $663,075
Partners R2024-0601
CC-F&B Oakview Group (OVG)
(2022-0948)
DPBC-Vox International, Inc. $92,125 annually 10/1/24 2/30/27 (Canada) Not to exceed $276,375
DPBC-LMG Management
Not to exceed $288,000 (Germany)
DPBC - ARIAREPS (Colombia)
$85,500 annually 10/1/24 9/30/27
Not to exceed $256,500 (Brazil)
$18,000 annually Not to exceed $103,000 10/1/24 9/30/27
DPBC – Fauhaber
DPBC – MMGY
To: Tourist Development Council
From: Emanuel Perry EP
Date: April 04, 2025
Topic: TDC Dashboard April Report–Activity February and FYTD 2025
Bed Tax Collections:
February 2025 collected in March was $12.7M compared to the same month last year at $11.6M, an increase of 9%. Actual February was 7% above Budget and 26% above the prior month at $10M. Actual February was 13% higher than 2023. Revenues from Hotels skyrocketed this month, boosting the tourism industry.
FYTD 2025 Collections at $49M were higher than last fiscal year to date $44M by 11%. Fiscal Year to Date Collections at $49M are 10% above the Approved Budget. FYTD 2025 Collections of $49M were 11% higher than FYTD 2023 Collections.
Highlights Key Room Metrics:
Passengers 12
Rolling
from last year same period Leisure & Hospitality Employment for Feb. 96,600 (3%) Lower than the same month last year
Employment 12,800 3% Higher than last year
& Entertainment
(2%) Lower than last year
(9%) Lower than last year
$200,000,000
$175,000,000
$150,000,000
$125,000,000
$100,000,000
$75,000,000
$50,000,000
$25,000,000
$600,000,000
$500,000,000
$400,000,000
$300,000,000
$200,000,000
$100,000,000
FY2025 Gross Bed Taxes Collections (All)
$45,000,000
$40,000,000
$35,000,000
$30,000,000
$25,000,000
$20,000,000
$15,000,000
$10,000,000
$5,000,000
Current Month 2025 vs. 2023 Month 5.A.1
Month- Net Rental Revenue
$30,107,277
$180,000,000
$150,000,000
$120,000,000
$90,000,000
$60,000,000
$30,000,000
$0
$154,321,908
$38,631,653
$172,732,917
Non-Hotel Room Revenues
Hotel Room Revenues
February 2025 Net Hotel Sales increased 12% over February 2023 February 2025 Non-Hotel Sales increased 28% over February 2023
Gross Monthly Room Nights Sold
February 2025 Hotel Room Nights Sold increased 6% over February 2023
Monthly PBIA Passengers
Monthly Gross Bed Taxes Collections (All)
$15,000,000
$12,000,000
$9,000,000
$6,000,000
$3,000,000
$0
March Collections for February 2025 were 13% above February 2023 and 9% above February 2024
Room Nights Available
February 2025 Hotel Room Nights Available for Sale increased 4% over February 2023; 19,520 Rooms Open
Monthly PBI Estimated Seats
February 2025 Passengers through PBI increased 16% over 2023
February 2025 Est. Seat Capacity at PBI increased 22% over February 2023
FY2025 Net Rental Revenue
$1,000,000,000
$800,000,000
$600,000,000
$400,000,000
$200,000,000
$0
$120,879,141
$154,467,376
$60,000,000
$50,000,000
$40,000,000
$614,214,154 $656,361,033
$30,000,000
$20,000,000
$10,000,000
Fiscal Year 2025 vs. 2023 5.A.1 FYTD 2025 Hotel Room Nights Sold increased 5% over FYTD 2023
FY2025 Gross Bed Taxes Collections (All) 2,409,544 2,521,389
3,486,932
2025 Hotel Room Nights Available for Sale increased 3% from same period 2023 FYTD 2025 Hotel Net Sales increased 7% over 2023 Non-Hotel Sales 28% higher than FYTD 2023 FYTD 2025 Collections increased 11% over FYTD 2023 and 12% higher than FYTD 2024
COUNTY
To lead the promotion of tourism in Palm Beach County by empowering collaborative partnerships, advocating appropriate destination defining developments, and ensuring the steady growth of visitors.
Palm Beach County will be a globally recognized destination that all travelers will want to visit and experience because of its culture, lifestyle and amenities.
Revenue Forecast
Expenses
Reserves
1st & 4th Cent
Our strategic efforts resulted in a 3% year-over-year increase in revenue, reflecting steady growth and operational efficiency.
Expenses were strategically optimized to ensure competitiveness and drive success in the tourism industry
Reserves were maintained to ensure financial stability and support for the funds
1st & 4th Cent funds were allocated for infrastructure improvements and renovation projects
Convention Center The Convention Center was Optimized to attract group business and host conventions/expos.
Special Projects
Strategic Investment
Special Projects funds were utilized to support events that drive tourism and enhance economic impact
Strategic investment into Special Projects to support the Tourism Master Plan recommendations
*Budget figures have been rounded for clarity throughout this comprehensive plan
*Budget figures have been rounded for clarity throughout this comprehensive plan
*Budget figures have been rounded for clarity throughout this comprehensive plan
Palm Beach County Convention Center Organizational Chart (Budget FY26)
*Budget figures have been rounded for clarity throughout this comprehensive plan.
*Drop in Reserve from $1M to 100K in FY26 is due to 900K being included in the upcoming FY budget transfer to Environment Resource Management Department
*Budget figures have been rounded for clarity throughout this comprehensive plan
AuditorsPresentations
TDCBoardApprovesAudits
ContractAmendments
May 8
TDC Board Approves Audits
Contract Amendments Approvals
July 10
(Sept.2024toFeb.2025)
2025: 369k + 133k
2024: 482k
2023: 487k
2022: 473k
2023: $177M
Last 5 Weeks as of 3/26/25
• A total of 41 guests attended
• A mixture of sales clients, members of the media, and digital influencers/content creators.
• 5 DTPB leaders
• Partners:
• OPAL Collection
• Porter Airlines
• Air Canada
• 33 articles, including NBC News, Toronto Star, TravelMole, Travel and Tour World, The Palm Beach Post and WPBF
Marketing measurement that combines multiple data sources, analytical methods and technologies to provide a complete understanding of marketing performance integrating insights from both offline and online channels in order to:
• Analyze cross-channel impact: Evaluate how different media channels (TV, digital, social media, print) work together to drive results
• Optimize budgets: Identify the most effective allocation of resources across channels to maximize ROI
• Adapt to real-time trends: Leverage dynamic data inputs, such as consumer behavior or market conditions, for ongoing strategy adjustments
Ensures a comprehensive view of campaign effectiveness and guides data-driven decision-making
Timeframe: 5 Months
• Annual Subscription with Full-Service Support; Model Renewal Annually
• Direct Access to Advertiser Data for Ease of Import
• Analysis of Current Spend for Optimization
• Forward Planning Tool to Analyze New Investments
• 18 Core Markets
• 50 Marketing Events
• KPI – Website Visits >> Visitation
• $200,000 from Private Funding in Year 1
Lack of Confidence from CEO & Planner =
• Longer Decision / Contract Cycle
• Attendance Forecasting Concern
• Reducing Risk & Financial Commitment
• Increase need in flexible contract terms
• Increase Speed to Market
• Prospecting growing / less affected industry accounts
• Face to Face Engagement in target states
• Promotional Incentives meeting current needs