HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-04-01 Support Documentation CSE Regular Meeting Town of Vail: Commission on Special Events Meeting
Vail Town Council Chambers
Wednesday, April 1, 2009 @ 8:30 a.m.
AGENDA:
Administrative Items: (15 minutes)
• Approval of the Minutes of the meeting of February 24, 2009
Coordinator Report:
• Review status of Contracts and Financial Report
• Next CSE Meeting reminder: Wednesday, May 6 @ 8:30 a.m. and joint meeting with
VLMDAC on Thursday, May 21.
• USA Judo: Sold the rights to the event that was being considered for Vail next October to
the city of San Jose, CA. They have confirmed that Vail will be the site of their
"President's Cup" event in May 2010.
• O'Hara's International Hurling Festival and Taste of Ireland: August 20 -23 in Ford Park
• Sports Alliance: progress to date
Public Input on Special Events in Vail Village: 8:45am to 9:30am
Spring Back to Vail/Adam Sutner, Vail Resorts. (15 minutes)
Review programming for the upcoming event. Discussion of what level of change in an event's
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programming from the original proposal should trigger a review of funding by the CSE.
Colorado Grand: Update/ Sarah Franke (5 minutes)
Event Recap: USSA Junior Olympics /Ski and Snowboard Club Vail, Nigel Cooper
(15 minutes)
Summer Street Entertainment Schedule: Resort Events /Diane Moudy and Maren Lantzy.
Review the proposed schedule and approve a final program. (15 minutes)
Holidays in Vail/ Laurie Asmussen, Eagle Valley Events: Progress update and request for
feedback. (15 minutes)
Discussion: How to allocate the remaining CSE funds? (15 minutes)
• Holidays in Vail?
o RFP for events that might be components of this program?
• Snow Daze?
CSE Strategic Plan: Discussion and feedback on the current draft. (20 minutes)
New Business: (5 minutes)
Adjournment: 11:15 a.m.
Next CSE Meeting: Wednesday, May 6 @ 8:30am
Joint Meeting w/VLMDAC. Thursday, May 21
Time and Place: TBD
Town of Vail: Commission on Special Events (CSE) Meeting
Vail Town Council Chambers
February 24, 2009 at 8:30 a.m.
The regular meeting of the CSE was called to order at approximately 9:00 a.m. by
Chairman Dave Chapin.
Members present: Dave Chapin, Chairman
Rayla Kundolf
Robert McKown
Heather Trub
j Megan Kirkham
Robert Bank
Kerry Donovan
Staff Present: Sybill Navas, CSE Coordinator
Pam Brandmeyer, Assistant Town Manager
Kelli McDonald, Economic Development Manager
Corey Swisher, Exec. Asst. to the Town Manager
Bill Carlson, Environmental Health
Kristen Bertuglia, Environmental Sustainability Coordinator
Leslie Fordham, AIPP Coordinator
Others Present: Katie Richardson, Vail Resorts
Jamie Gunion, Vail Recreation District
Jeff Brausch, Highline Sports and Entertainment
Joyce Gedelman- Viers, VCBA
Laurie Asmussen, Eagle Valley Events
Dan Conway, Vail Resorts
Sarah Franke, Lionshead Merchants Association
Chris Romer, Vail Valley Partnership
Jessica Stevens, Vail Valley Partnership
-- Administrative Items:
• Approval of the Minutes of the meeting of January 27, 2009
McKown moved to approve the minutes, as presented, with Kirkham seconding. The
motion passed unanimously, 7 -0.
Coordinator Report:
• Review status of Contracts and Financial Report: Navas reported that many
contracts have yet to be sent on account of the council's review of budget cuts.
The council determined at their last meeting that there would be no reduction in
the CSE's budget, so remaining contracts will be sent out in the near future.
CSE M!ru;es February 24 2009 Page 1 of 4
• Follow up: Should Tax returns be required from applicants for funding? Navas
reported that she had consulted with Matt Mire regarding this question, and that
his recommendation was not to go this route. He felt that the CSE should
evaluate events based on their own criteria and what the event brings to the
community.
• Update: Taste of Ireland: O'Hara's International Hurling Festival, tentative dates
August 20 -23, 2009. VRD representative Jamie Gunion said they expected a
large turnout for the event, which is being produced by the Denver Hurling Club
and will be held on the softball fields at Ford Park.
• Navas reported the Colorado Grand automobile event had been sold. She
added, that on account of the Jewish holiday that begins on Saturday, the car
display will be held on Friday this year. There is some concern that many of the
participants will not want to stay in Vail for that component of the event. Sarah
Franke will provide a full update at the next CSE meeting.
• She then reported she has been unable to contact the Geocache event
promoters, and is unclear whether they intend to produce the event again in
2009.
• Navas said that although the Film Festival does not have a title sponsor, they
have a greater number of high profile celebrities committed to attend than ever
before.
--"Green Events ": Review draft of proposed additions to the Special Event Permit
Application and provide feedback.
Navas reported that in response to direction from the Town Council and the Town
Manager's Office, Environmental Sustainability Coordinator Kristen Bertuglia and
Environmental Officer Bill Carlson had been working with the Event Review Committee
(ERC) and local event producers to develop criteria for insuring that events taking place
in the town are making every possible effort to minimize impacts to the environment.
Navas explained that the intent is to develop "Green" event requirements for the Special
Event Permit that would remain optional through the remainder of this year, but would
become mandatory next year. The CSE agreed to include an event's level of
"greenness" as part of the criteria for funding consideration. Bertuglia explained she was,
"Trying to eliminate Styrofoam in the community... The town has also been in
communication with Vail Resorts in an effort to join forces toward better sustainability."
Bank and Kundolf expressed concern the CSE was bordering on micromanaging events.
Navas said there is a fair opportunity for event promoters to be compliant. Highline
representative Jeff Brausch, stating that they had been participating in the process of
developing the requirements, said costs for such measures could be prohibitive and
encouraged the Commissioners to look at the number of things that event producers are
already doing. Donovan encouraged examining the ECO Build model. Brausch also
said it would take time to train event attendees to use recycle waste containers. There
was consensus that using a point system or checklist, providing options rather than a full
list of requirements, would be preferable.
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Oktoberfest/Highline Sports and Entertainment:
Highline representative Jeff Brausch discussed the potential impacts on the event in light
of the reduced funding for 2009. "Oktoberfest received $82,500 in 2008 and has been
allocated $66,000 for 2009." Brausch explained that, particularly in this year of economic
uncertainty, developing sponsorships for this event is more challenging than ever- in part
because of the strong ties to alcohol consumption. He added that 5 years ago, the event
was not profitable and that Highline had been able to turn it around, but that the success
or failure of the event remains extremely sensitive to the weather conditions. Brausch
reported that the event would have to be scaled back, either in entertainment content or
reducing the number of days from 6 to 5. CSE members requested that he return with
an update in 2 or 3 months.
—Snow Daze 2008 Final recap
Highline representative Jeff Brausch distributed an event recap and explained that the
Snow Daze event was well attended, with the Demo Daze component receiving over
twice the activity as in recent years. "We ran the largest marketing campaign we have
ever run in Vail." He reported the event posted a financial shortfall of $167,000, largely
on account of the expense of the Fray (entertainment) and lighter ticket sales created
the shortfall. "The Fray cost $425,000 alone ... The ROI for the town should be between 8
or 6 to 1." Navas clarified profits were not impacted by Highline waiting to announce
headliners till the "last second." Brausch responded, "You really can't control the concert
industry."
He concluded by giving an update on the proposed changes in programming for Spring
Back to Vail, stating that they were looking back to the original format of bringing activity
back into the village with all free shows, bands in the $50k -$100K price range (thereby
lowering the risk factor) and tapping into the "All the Love" marketing campaign.
— Thanksgiving to New Year's Events Review
Asmussen distributed a proposed plan for the event, but added that funding for the
additional events /activities did not exist. Vail Chamber and Business Association
(VCBA) representative Joyce Gedelman explained her organization represented
businesses throughout Vail not just Vail Village. Navas and Kundolf emphasized the
importance of Village Core leadership stepping up. Navas stated, "LionsHead has
provided their own leadership in terms of promoting and organizing the event. We need
to develop some synergy throughout the community from Thanksgiving to New Years
Eve."
Navas reported the Vail Police Department has been encouraging the addition of an
family friendly /alcohol free "1' Night" celebration and /or reviving the New Year's event
for youth at Dobson Arena. The CSE board then questioned whether they could pay for
marketing as opposed to just an event. Navas said there was a marketing component to
every event. Kundolf encouraged gift wrapping stations in the Village during holidays.
She added that this is not an "event" time, rather a "community" time and that the
community needs to participate to make it successful. Laurie was asked to present an
updated event plan at the April CSE meeting, so that the CSE could provide feedback on
which components they would consider for funding. The actual funding application would
CSE N?;nt._:±es `:ebr :ary 24 2009 Page 3 of 4
be considered at the meeting on May 6. CSE members agreed that no new RFP would
be issued at this time.
-- Strategic Plan:
Donovan explained the progress to date. CSE members agreed by consensus to accept
the revised mission statement, the addition of categories of events, removal of the
reference to the Special Event Handbook and encouraged the committee to leave in the
philosophical commitments as written, while minimizing the specifics.
- -New Business:
Romer updated the CSE on the status of the Judo Event at Dobson Arena and stated
that they expect a decision as to whether the event is committed to come to Vail within
two weeks. He added that regardless of what the decision is with respect to this event,
they (the Vail Valley Partnership) has an "excellent foot in the door" with the Olympic
Committee- who produce over 600 events per year.
Bank said Village Merchants were very skeptical of sales tax collections on Meadow
Drive (Vail Farmer's Market). He then expressed concern Vail Village businesses were
are not allowed to participate in the market. Navas explained the Meadow Drive
Business Association owns the market, and has developed a prioritization for
participation that favors their members, but that the participation is limited by space.
Kirkham asked to re- address what logo event promoters should use when receiving
Town of Vail funding.
Navas announced there would be a joint CSE meeting on April 19 with the Vail Local
Marketing District Advisory Committee.
Gedelmen expressed concern that the Town of Vail and Vail Resorts event calendars
were not comprehensive.
-- Adjournment @ 11:06 a.m.
Kirkham moved to adjourn with McKown seconding. The motion passed unanimously,
7 -0.
Minutes taken and submitted by Corey Swisher,
edited by Sybill Navas
February 24, 2009
Approved: Date:
Dave Chapin, CSE Chairman
,'hrl_iary 24 . F!C9 i4
- CSE/sn _ 2009 Funding Allocations Revised: 3/ 3_1 / 09
Town of Vail: Commission on Special Events 2009 Funding Allocations
2009 CSE Funds Available: $836,810
Start 2009 CSE Funds Total Funds Pi
Event: Producing Entity: Date 2009 Dates: Allocated: Contract Status: Funds Paid Out: Out: Amount Still Owed
2009 Unlimited Adventure Series Vail Symposium 1/29 6 Thursdays: Jan 29- Mar 5 $3,000 as of 2/20 $3,000 $3,000 $0
CarniVail Highline Sports and Entertainment 2/22 Feb 22 -24 & 27 $8,000 as of 2/13 $8,000 $8,000 $0
USSA Junior Olympics Ski and Snowboard Club Vail 3/5 March 5 -11 $2,000 as of 2/13 $2,000 $2,000 $0
Taste of Vail: Lamb Cook Off Taste of Vail 4/1 April 1-4 $20,000 as of 2/27 $6,667 $6,667 $13,333
Vail Film Festival Vail Film Institute 4/2
April 2-5 $57,000 as of 2/27 $38,000 $38,000 $19,000
Springbadc to Vail Highline Sports and Entertainment 4/13 April 13- 19 $70,000 submitted #2 3/24 $23,333 $23,333 $46,667
>Vail WhRewater Kayak Demos Sean Glackin 5/19 5 Tuesdays: May 19- June 16 $2,000 as of 2/27 $2,000 $2,000 $0
TEVA Mtn Games + IFSC World Cup Vail Valley Foundation 6/4 June 4 -7 $130,000 as of 3/6 $43,334 $43,334 $86,666
King of the Mountain Volleyball King of the Mountain Volleyball 6/19 June 19- 21 $7,000 as of 2/27 $2,333 $2,333 $4,667
> Lionshead South of the Border Fiesta Vail Chamber and Business Association 6/20 20 -Jun $11,000 as of 3/13 $3,667 $3,667 $7,333
Vail Farmers' Market and Art Show Meadow Drive Partnership 6/21 14 Sundays: June 21- Sept 20 $56,000 as of 3/20 $18,667 $18,667 $37,333
Ambient Street Entertainment Resort Entertainment 6/26 June 26- Sept 7 $30,000 submitted 3/30 $0 $30,000
Vail Arts Festival Eagle Valley Events 6/26 June 26 -28 $18,000 as of 2/27 $6,000 $6,000 $12,000
BBQ Bonanza Vail Chamber and Business Association 627 27 -Jun $12,000 as of 3/13 $4,000 $4,000 $8,000
Vail Lacrosse Shoot -out Colorado Lacrosse Promotions 627 June 27- July 5 $10,000 as of 3/30 $10,000 $10,000 $0
Lionshead Friday Afternoon Club Lionshead Merchants Association 7/3 7 Fridays, July 3 -Aug 14 $20,000 sent 2/19 $0 $20,000
Vail America Days Eagle Valley Events 7/4 Sunday, July 4 $52,000 as of 227 $17,333 $17,333 $34,667
Kick -It 3v3 Soccer Tournament BEST Entertainment Sports & Television 7/31 July 31 -Aug 2 $35,000 sent 3/25 $0 $35,000
Sweet on Vail Vail Chamber and Business Association 8/15 15 -Aug $10,000 as of 3/13 $3,334 $3,334 $6,666
Vail Antique Festival Mc Presents w /LH Merchants Association 8/21 Aug 21 -23 $6,000 as of 227 $2,000 $2 000 $4,000
Gourmet on Gore Highline Sports and Entertainment 9/4 Sept 4-6 $54,000 submitted 3/30 $0 $54,000
Oktoberfest Highline Sports and Entertainment 9/11 Sep 11 -13 & 18-20 $66,000 sent 325 $0 $66,000
Colorado Grand Colorado Grand 9/17 Sep 17 -18 $3,000
$0 $3,000
GeoCache Dash Vail Elevation Innovation Labs 10/3 3 -Oct $4,000 $0 $4,000
Vail Valley Challenge Cup Vail Valley Soccer Club 10/3 Oct 3-4 $2,000 as of 2/27 $2,000 $2,000 $0
Snow Daze' Highline Sports and Entertainment 12/7 Dec 7- 13 $0' $0
Holidays in Vail' Eagle Valley Events 12/18 Dec 18- 31 $0' $0
Total Event Allocations: $688,000 $0 $688,000
Office and Meeting Expenses $3,500
$0 $3,500
Research/Event Evaluation $0
$o $o
Total Administrative Allocations: $3,500 $0 $3,500
TOTAL ALLOCATIONS: $691,500 $195,668 $495,832
CSE Funds Remaining: $145,310
funding decision is being withheld until after the 2008 events occur and Thanksgiving to New Year's programming is reviewed.
I _ 2009 Funding Allocations Revised: 3/31/09
Events with Funding Allocated by Vail Town Council: Cash Funding:
Street Beat Winter Concert Series Vail Valley Foundation 1/21 10 concerts: Jan 21 -Apr 15 $25,650 as of 3/6 $12,825 $12,825 $12,825
American Ski Classic Vail Valley Foundation 3/18 Mar 18- 22 $5,000 as of 3/6 $5,000 $5,000 $0
Vail International Dance Festival Vail Valley Foundation 7/27 July 27 -Aug 11 $45,000 $0 $45,000
Hot Summer Nights Vail Valley Foundation 6/16 Tuesdays, Jun 16 -Aug 23 $24,525 $0 $24,525
Vail Jazz Festival Vail Jazz Foundation $23,850 sent 3/25 $0 $23,850
Vail Farmers' Market Meadow Drive Partnership 6/21 Sundays Jun 21- Sep 13 $5,850 as of 3/20 $0 $5,850
Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival: New York
Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra a Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival 7/1 July 1 -Aug 4 $157,500 sent 3/25 $0 $157,500
Bravo!Colorado
In -Kind
Funding:
Ski Swap Ski and Snowboard Club Vail 10129 Oct 29- Nov 1 $5,285 4 days ice @ Dobson
VVMC Spring Fashion Show & Luncheon 3/25 25 -Mar $7,500 300: 1 day parkir
passe
2009 Hockey Tournament Vail Junior Hockey $15,391 1 day y Donovan
days ice @ Dob:
Skating Club of Vail Skating Club of Vail July 15 -19 and late Dec. $11,891 9 days ice @ Dobson
Colorado Special Olympics Special Olympics Colorado Sundays, Jan -Feb $1,050cing passes for 7 Sunda
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1. Add a free outdoor barbeque adjacent to the Pond Skimming Championships at Golden Peak -
free to all attendees
2. We'll upgrade music to a name DJ — Mo Rockin' (Friday — Sunday)
3. We will install a process to impel guests to leave Golden Peak and go into Vail Village and
Lionshead
- an 'Epic Treasure hunt' with 50+ prizes including Epic passes, trips, skis, et, al.
(we would welcome the involvement of merchants and retailers in this process)
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From: "Nigel Cooper" <ncooper @skiclubvail.org>
To: "'Special Events "' <specialevents @vailgov.com>
CC: "'Jennifer Geisness "' <jgeisness @skiclubvail.org >, "Aldo Radamus" <aradamus @skiclubvail.org>
Date: Tuesday - March 17, 2009 11:50 AM
Subject: Event Follow Up - USSA Junior Olympics hosted by Ski & Snowboard Club Vail
Dear Sybill:
Here is our follow up report. We had a great time during Junior Olympics.
Hope you enjoyed reading about us in the local press. Let me know if you
need more info.
1. An overview outlining the event's strengths and weaknesses:
specifically, what went well and what measures could be taken to improve the
event.
* The USSA Rocky /Central Junior Olympics was a great event by any
measure. We had typical Colorado ski racing weather.blue skies, hard snow
and cool temperatures. Golden Peak Race Arena was in top notch condition and
the best 13 and 14 year old athletes from across Colorado, New Mexico and
the mid -west were all in attendance representing some 20 plus ski clubs and
over 15 states! From March 4th -Mach 11th, the Ski & Snowboard Club Vail was
the focus of our community as we put all our efforts into promoting winter
sport for youth and showcasing our town and its people and businesses.
What was Great?
Local Media Attention (TV, Press, Radio, Internet)
Interest of Local Businesses and support of the community
Vail Resort's slope preparation /event department
Volunteer Enthusiasm
The kids who came here to celebrate mountain life (160 of them!)
What needs more attention?
Increased Media visibility for Vail's most important youth sport
organization
Better use of Village squares to host bib draws, opening /closing
ceremonies and awards spectacles
Better partnerships with village hospitality sponsors to ensure
families, athletes, coaches are enjoying all the amenities, proximity and
fun that Vail /Lionshead has to offer at a price that keeps them returning.
Grandstands to accommodate the more than 200 people that showed up
to watch the show every day. Spectator services such as food and beverage to
feed them!
2. An event budget showing actual profit and loss numbers and how the
CSE funding was utilized.
* As per original request and budget, the $2000 in funding was used to
supplement the cost of the official video produced by EEF HD. Each child
goes home with one and we are hoping to have year -round broadcast of the
show on local N soon. Full budget can be seen when completed with profit
and loss. I will forward upon completion
3. A detailed overview of the marketing that was implemented to promote
the event.
Pre -Event
16 -Page "Official Program" pullout in March 4th Vail Mountaineer
3 x 4 minute segments live on N 8
3 x 4 minute segments on Plum N
www.realvail.com /theskiclub lead up story
Vail Daily sports coverage (2 articles)
Vail Mountaineer Lead-Up Editorial
Event
Vail Daily Front Page Photo from March 4th to March 12th referring
to Junior Olympics
Vail Mountaineer Front Page Photo /Story March 6 - 12th referring
to Junior Olympics
March 4 -12 daily 4 minute live segment on Plum TV (9 shows)
March 4,7,9,11 4 minute live shows in studio and on the hill (5
shows) on N8
Daily commentary of event live from Golden Peak Race City.
Highliting athletes, results, sponsors
Live results seen around the world
Post Event
Currently negotiating to play full 30 minute professional event
video on TV8, Plum and FOX. Watch for it!
Results booklet published for all athletes noting TOV on every
page
www.realvail.com /theskiclub follow up stories
4. Survey results showing the estimated effect on the following, per
the CSE Criteria as described in the RFP:
* Attendance numbers and demographic profile
* 160 athletes (rocky /central region, 15 states, 13/14 year olds)
* 1 in 5 kids had at least one parent here (moms and dads of above)
* 1 in 5 kids had a coach here (professional ski coaches of athletes
above)
* Economic impacts to the retail, restaurant and lodging sectors of
the community
* 140 of the kids, their families and coaches ate slept and drank here
for 7 plus days!
* Visitor Intent to Return
* 50% of athletes will return next year to event hosted here
* Vail is Mecca for most of these families. Very good anecdotal
feedback from visitors
5. Potential for growth and the development of sponsorships and media
exposure.
* There has never been such sustained front page coverage on a local
event in Vail except for maybe World up
* Getting to the local media from the other 15 states is our next
goal.
* Activation of current sponsors was met with critical acclaim. Next
year will step up another notch
* Follow up on TV and Radio coverage will become media exposure focus
for 2010 event
6. Did the event impact Vail's "Sense of Community "?
* Of course.ski racing, kids, family. Doesn't get any better than this
in February. Through our "Official Program" we helped bring many together to
feel a part of the fun and action.
7. Lastly, in light of the Vail Town Council's commitment to a
sustainable environment, please describe any and all measures that were
taken to produce the event in as "green" and environmentally friendly manner
as possible.
,N
* Our Schwag Bags were made from post- consumer materials and are
reusable
* Encouraged use of bus system in lieu of driving here each day
* This is an area for improvement. Our Club has met with both VR and
TOV in this regard recently and in our new fiscal year (May 1st) will make
some significant purchase of bins, cleaning supplies and other sustainable
products as well as implement an education mandate for all 70 staff to help
sort, re -use and recycle better moving forward.
Thank you for the support of the Commission on Special Events at TOV. Please
call me with any questions.
Sincerely,
Nigel
Nigel Cooper Development Assistant to the Executive Director
<http: / /www.skiclubvail.org /> cid :image001.jpg @O1C90E88.4CCBFDDO
970.790.5133
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TOWN OF VAffj
COMMISSION ON SPECIAL EVENTS
Memo
To: CSE Members
From: Sybill Navas, CSE Coordinator
Date: April 1, 2009
RE: Questions to address regarding Strategic Plan Revisions
1. Do you want to include the section describing the roles of other community
organizations? If so, which ones?
2. Page 4: Continued commitment to fund on -going events that are profitable?
3. Page 9: Reference to consideration of "Green" event practices
4. Criteria Grid:
a. Does it need to be revised to reflect better the differences in the types of
events?
b. Addition of Green Event Criteria
5. Next Steps?
a. Addition of Action Steps?
b. Develop an annual work plan?
i
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Town of Vail:
Commission on Special Events
REVISED Strategic Plan
DD D A E _
Last revised: Tuesday, March 31, 2009
I
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DRAFT
Our Values:
Integrity- Collaboration- Accountability - Respect
Purpose:
The mission of the Vail Commission on Special Events (CSE) is to support and
assess a diverse collection of special events, both large and small, which
promote fall's vitality, sense of community, and increase the quality of the
experience for guests and residents year - round.
The purpose of the Commission on Special Events Strategic Plan is to
establish guidelines that will assist the CSE in developing and supporting a
calendar of events that accomplish the following goals:
➢ Assist in balancing the year round economy
➢ Increase sales and lodging tax revenues in the Town of Vail
➢ Promote a strong sense of community
➢ Appeal to a diversity of interests
➢ Provide a better quality of life for guests and residents
➢ Entice visitors to return, and
➢ Increase the length of their visits
This document is meant to be revisited and revised as the community
evolves and action steps are completed.
Working Document: Vail CSE Strategic Plan Revised 3131109 Page 2 of 12
3
v
DRAFT
Process:
A committee was appointed by the CSE to develop a final draft of the plan.
The committed consisted of CSE members Kerry Donovan and Rayla
Kundolf, Vail Economic Development Manager Kelli McDonald and CSE
Coordinator Sybill Navas.
The document was reviewed by the following entities:
Vail Local Marketing District Advisory Council (VLMDAC)
Vail Town Council
Vail Economic Advisory Council (VEAC)
Vail Valley Partnership (VVP)
Vail Chamber and Business Association (VCBA)
Town of Vail Event Review Committee (ERC)
Vail Recreation District (VRD)
Lionshead Merchants Association
Vail Mountain Marketing
Meadow Drive Partnership
Vail Valley Foundation (VVF)
OTHERS?
Adopted on (date) By the Vail Commission on Special Events
Commission on Special Events Members:
Dave Chapin, Chairman
Robert McKown, Vice- Chairman
Bobby Bank
Kerry Donovan
Meggen Kirkham
Rayla Kundolf
Heather Trub
Working Document: Vail CSE Strategic Plan Revised: 3131109 Page 3 of 12
u
DRAFT
Background:
In 2002, the Vail Town Council approved legislation that created the
Commission on Special Events (CSE) in its current form. This ordinance
reorganized the existing CSE and set several broad objectives:
1. Stimulating the local economy
a. Increase lodging and sales tax collections
b. Increase number of visitors
c. Insure that visitors have a high rate of intent to return
2. Create a sense of community in Vail and increase the quality of
experience for both guests and residents
3. To establish a single point of contact for events administration
4. To provide street entertainment and special events that reflect the
high quality image of Vail and contribute to vitality, economic viability
and fun throughout the year
Strategic Fundamentals:
The CSE will encourage and recruit independent event organizers to
produce events in Vail by acting in a sponsorship role to provide seed
funding for the development of new events and sponsorship dollars for on-
going events, particularly existing events that are profitable and that are
contributing to the economic vitality of the community.
It continues to be the job of the CSE to weed out events not
performing as expected while continuing to encourage the development of
new events that are commensurate with the world class image of Vail.
Additionally, in keeping with the public trust and economic realities,
every event investment will be held to a high level of accountability. A post -
event recap will be expected from each event receiving public funding and
will be publicly reviewed by the CSE.
Progress will be evaluated by addressing these basic questions:
• Did every event investment increase Vail's economic performance?
• Are event investments being fully leveraged to increase sales and
marketing reach?
• Are we consistently achieving more impact with public resources?
• Do these events contribute to a strong sense of community and better
quality of life?
Events that qualify for CSE funding are ultimately selected by what
they can contribute to the community and how they fit into a calendar of
Working Document: Vail CSE Strategic Plan Revised 3131109 Page 4 of 12
DRAFT
events that will appeal to a diversity of interests and provide a balance of
activity and economic vitality throughout the year.
Categories of Special Events:
Special Events are as diverse as the people that they attract. Different types
of events contribute to the community in different ways, and the CSE must
remain cognizant that all special events do not serve the same purpose in
the community. While recognizing that some events "overlap" into more
than one category, in order to facilitate the comparison of the contributions
that varying events bring to the community the CSE has developed the
following categories of Special Events:
Iconic Events:
1. Take place over a period of several days, or even weeks
2. Attract destination visitors from outside the region, and provide
strong stimulus for the lodging, restaurant and retail community.
3. Nationally or internationally recognized competitions or cultural
events that contribute to Vail's image as a world -class destination.
4. Leverage community contributions with major sponsorships.
5. Require a large number of volunteers and significant community
support.
Examples: World Alpine Ski Championships, TEVA Mountain Games,
BRAVO! Vail Valley Music Festival, Vail International Dance Festival, Jazz
Festival
Role of the CSE: Review, evaluate economic impacts and potential,
facilitate and recommend
ParticiRatorn Events:
1. Attract destination guests and put "heads in beds" for the duration
of the event
2. Provide benefit to the lodging and restaurant community.
3. Turnkey: the Town's role is that of a host site.
4. Capitalize on infrastructure that might otherwise be under - utilized.
Examples: Kick -It 3vs3 Soccer, Vail Lacrosse Shootout, Vail Challenge
Cup Soccer, Vail -Eagle Hockey Tournament
Working Document: Vail CSE Strategic Plan Revised.• 3131109 Page 5 of 12
DRAFT
Role of the CSE: Partner with the community, recruit, evaluate economic
impacts and potential, provide sponsorship and /or site fees where
necessary, facilitate, review
Ambient Events:
1. Provide entertainment, activities and street vitality for guests who
are already here, or who might come into town for an afternoon or
an evening.
2. Attract visitors from within the region or the Front Range.
3. Help to keep people in town for longer than they might otherwise
stay.
4. Contribute to Vail's image as a place where there is always
something fun to do.
Examples: Vail Jazz Festival, Summer Street Entertainment, Gourmet on
Gore, BBQ Bonanza, Oktoberfest, Vail Farmers' Market, Lionshead Friday
Afternoon Club, Vail Arts Festival
Role of the CSE: Communicate and partner with the business
community, develop concepts, encourage sponsorship development,
provide funding where necessary, evaluate economic contributions,
review
Community Events:
1. Create a venue to celebrate major holidays and important
community events, and to preserve the heritage and traditions of
our community.
2. Provide for a better quality of life for residents: i.e. make people
happy
3. Bring "neighbors" (Summit County, down - valley) into town
4. Do not have a strong ability to attract major sponsors and /or do not
provide opportunity for additional revenue sources to the event
producer or measurable economic contributions to the Town of Vail.
Examples: America Days, Holidays in Vail, Trick -or -Treat Trot, Lionshead
Easter Egg Hunt
Role of the CSE: Facilitate, work with community organizations, contract
for event production where necessary, evaluate and review
Working Document. Vail CSE Strategic Plan Revised. 3131109 Page 6 of 12
DRAFT
Givens:
The Commission on Special Events (CSE) strategy assumes several givens:
• Special events contribute to visitor satisfaction, sense of community
and increased spending.
• Cooperation and communication with other community organizations,
including, but not limited to, the Vail Local Marketing District Advisory
Council (VLMDAC), the Vail economic Advisory Council (VEAC), The
Vail Valley Partnership (VVP), the Vail Chamber and Business
Association (VCBA) and Vail Mountain Marketing are essential to the
success of CSE's program.
• Events that receive support from the CSE must be of a quality
commensurate with Vail's image as a world -class resort.
• The use of measurable criteria in event selection, funding and
evaluation is critical to ensuring progress.
• A single point of contact is required to support special event
producers.
The CSE is part of the Town of Vail's Economic Development Department
and it therefore relies on the Town for support in many areas. Examples of
support that the CSE will look to the Town to provide are:
• Policy Direction from the Vail Town Council.
• Consistent Special Events Funding.
• Proactive Development of Appropriate Special Event Venues
• Town of Vail Staff support for Special Events as required.
Every significant event destination allocates resources to the administration,
ongoing support and recruiting of special events. Research has proven that
Special Events generate additional sales tax revenues in the Town of Vail.
The CSE recommends that some percentage of these increased revenues
should be used not only to help underwrite the costs of administration, but
also for research, evaluation and further event development or recruitment.
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DRAFT
The CSE will:
• Provide a balanced, year round calendar of events appealing to
residents and guests of diverse interests.
• Attract and develop events that will enhance and contribute to
Vail's world -class reputation.
• Attract visitors by dedicating resources to recruit and develop
new events.
• Attract and support participant events for visitors and locals.
• Develop community events that will enhance the experience of
Vail's guests and residents, as well as become effective
marketing tools. Examples include Vail America Days, Holidays in
Vail, Trick -or -Treat Trot, Lionshead Easter Egg Hunt, etc.
• Encourage producers of special events to provide free street
entertainment e.g. clowns from circus, musicians from BRAVO,
and artists from the Vail Arts Festival.
• Actively solicit entrepreneurial street entertainment.
• Assess and evaluate events to insure that the community benefits are
commensurate with the investment of public funds.
• Follow objective event selection, funding and evaluation criteria.
• Develop critical success measurements: In coordination with the
VLMD and appropriate research vendors, tools will be developed
to regularly measure the following criteria:
• Economic indicators
• Increased sales tax collections
• Increased lodging tax collections
• Improved occupancy rates
• Impact from direct event spending
• Quantifiable marketing benefits
• Contributions to sense of community:
• Does the event improve the quality experience for
guests and residents?
• Does it pull down - valley residents into Vail?
• Does it make people happy?
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DRAFT
o Communicate with the local business community, the
VCBA, the VVP and the VRD to insure that the events
funded by the CSE have a positive impact on the local
economy.
o Ensure that event investments are closely coordinated with
the economic needs of the community as recommended by
the VEAC and with the broader marketing objectives
identified by the VLMD.
• Maintain biannual meetings with the VLMDAC and
continue to work cooperatively to align the special
events and marketing programs.
• "Green Events:" The CSE will give preference to funding events that
are committed to environmentally sustainable practices.
• Encourage producers of major events to develop sponsorships and to
reduce over time their reliance on Town of Vail funding and the
percentage of the event budget that is funded with public dollars.
• Demonstrate to the Town Council that special events are a revenue
provider for the Town, not an expense, and that events can deliver
substantial sales and lodging tax revenues while simultaneously
making Vail a more exciting place to live and visit.
• Encourage a culture within the Town of Vail that welcomes special
events and provides a "can do" attitude of cooperation between Town
of Vail Departments, Event Promoters and local businesses.
• Advocate for the development and improvement of venues and
facilities for Special Events within the Town of Vail.
• Improve coordination and communication between the Town of Vail's
Event Review Committee (ERC), the Vail Recreation District (VRD),
Vail Mountain Marketing and the CSE.
• Develop a refined program for the allocation of in -kind services to
support Special Events.
• Provide complete and accurate information with regard to the calendar
of special events in response to the needs of prospective visitors,
event promoters, Town of Vail staff, concierges, locals and guests.
• Maintain a "single point of contact" for Special events.
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DRAFT
Roles of Other Community Partners and
Organizations:
Event Review Committee: (ERQ
• Review Special Event Permit Applications
• Facilitate the production of events in the Town of Vail
• Insure that all events comply with Town of Vail regulations
• Insure that the event will not compromise health, safety and
environmental considerations
• Work collaboratively with the event producer to insure that the event
will provide the best possible experience for visitors, residents and
businesses.
Vail Chamber and Business Asgociation: (VCBA)
• Communicate opportunities to participate in events
• Produce events that will directly benefit the business community
• Share information with the CSE as to what types of events are of the
greatest benefit to the business community
Vail Economic Advisory Council: tVEAQ
• Adopt and implement an annual work plan which includes input into the
VLMDAC and CSE work plans
• Develop initiatives to increase economic vitality
• Provide an economic lens to Town of Vail issues
• Act as a sounding board for the Town Manager
Vail Local Marketing District Advisory Council: (VLMDAQ:
The VLMD can assist the CSE in achieving its mission by:
• Determining key brand elements and identifying desired consumer
demographics, primary and secondary markets, messaging, etc. thus
providing input to the CSE on event strategy, selection and evaluation.
• Coordinating communication and planning timelines with the CSE so
that event investments are fully leveraged.
Working Document: Vail CSE Strategic Plan Revised.• 3131109 Page 10 of 12
DRAFT
• Budget appropriate resources to leverage ancillary marketing
opportunities brought about by Vail's special events portfolio.
• Insure that the Calendar of Events is maintained on the website
Vail Mountain Marketing:
• Communicate the need for events during off -peak winter time
periods
• Relay the overall Vail brand so the CSE understands the brand
framework events should operate within
• Enhance the marketing efforts of events (particularly those in the
winter) via vail.com and other electronic communication efforts
• Venues ??
Vail Recreation District: (VRD) Jamie Gunion
Vail Valley Fou ation _(VVF) Mike Imhof and Ceil Folz
Vail Valley Partnershi : (UP,)
• Communicate the needs of the business community
• Provide lodging data that can help to measure the success of particular
events
• Recruit participatory events
• Marketing opportunities to help provide exposure for the events
through VisitVailValley.com (calendar of events,) etc.
Working Document: Vail CSE Strategic Plan Revised. 3131109 Page 11 of 12
ATTACHMENT A: CRITERIA FOR ALLOCATION OF CSE FUNDS
SPECIAL EVENT RATING GRID
EVENT NAME:
DATES: $$$ AMT. REQUESTED:
New Event Existing Event________., if yes, # of years
The event is: (check all that apply)
Iconic Participatory Ambient Community
Does the event have the potential to:
Benefit local restaurants
Increase room nights
Stimulate Retail Sales
Contribute to Vail's sense of communi
Promote Visitor Intent to Return
Timing: How well does it contribute to a balanced annual calendar of
events?
Demographic Fit: Does it match the profile of targeted visitors, in
alignment with the VLMD's program?
Growth Potential: How big can it become? Will it be annual?
Leveraging Value: How great is the potential to attract sponsorships
and media exposure, thereby increasing the impact of the CSE funds?
"Green Events:" How well does the event comply with Vail 's
commitment to environmental sustainability?
Producer Qualifications: Do they have the ability to produce an event
compatible with the image of Vail as a "world class" resort?
TOTAL SCORE:
C,59 AfFmber Initials: S Amount of funding suggested: