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Zuniga, Diana From: Ryan Chase < Sent: Tuesday, June 03, 2025 11:41 AM To: eComment Subject: In support of agenda item #7 on Consent Calendar Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links. Dear Santa Ana City Council, This letter is in support of the renewal of the Santa Ana Tourism Marketing District (SATMD). As a 4th generation Santa Ana business/property owner and member of the Travel Santa Ana Board of Directors, I have seen firsthand the positive impact the destination marketing organization (DMO) has had on the City of Santa Ana over the past four years. These accomplishments include: 1. Developing a brand for the destination that encompasses all that makes Santa Ana unique; 2. Highlighting local artists to create Santa Ana signatures in place of a traditional logo; 3. Establishing a Marketing Advisory Group to create synergy among Santa Ana marketers; 4. Curating a Public Art Guide featuring more than 200 murals throughout the city; and 5. Creating the "Santa Ana Enthusiast" ambassador program. Travel Santa Ana's strategic sales and marketing efforts continue to elevate the perception of our city, attracting visitors to our hotels, restaurants, attractions, retail businesses, and events. An estimated 90% of DMOs operate under 10-year agreements, and Travel Santa Ana should be no exception. The organization has proven invaluable in supporting hoteliers and the local tourism industry and should be allowed to continue its efforts without operational disruption. In addition, the proposed incremental increase would allow Travel Santa Ana the flexibility to address specific challenges—such as recovering from a downturn in tourism—or to expand marketing efforts into new or underserved markets, while adapting strategies to enhance destination competitiveness and further bolster the local economy. For these reasons, I strongly urge the Santa Ana City Council to approve the renewal of the SATMD and support the continued success of Travel Santa Ana. The organization has demonstrated its commitment to enhancing the city's visibility, economic vitality, and cultural vibrancy. With the renewal and proposed funding structure, Travel Santa Ana will be well-positioned to build on its accomplishments and further contribute to the prosperity of our community. And lastly, wanted to add how lucky we are to have Wendy Haase leading the charge of SATMD, she is doing an amazing job and a huge asset to the City! i