Title:
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Approve and authorize the Chairman to execute an agreement with the Central Florida Zoological Society, Inc., in the amount of $340,000 for the FY2023/24 funding allocation for marketing, advertising, maintenance, enhancements, repairs, and improvements. Countywide (Guilherme Cunha, Economic Development and Tourism Administrator)
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Division:
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County Manager Office - Tourism
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Authorized By:
Andrea Wesser-Brawner, Director of Strategic Initiatives
Contact/Phone Number:
Guiherme Cunha/407-665-2901
Background:
The Seminole County Board of County Commissioners has approved funding for the Central Florida Zoological Society, Inc. for more than 17 years. The Central Florida Zoo is a not-for-profit corporation organized under Chapter 617 of the Florida Statutes and was first established in 1923 as the Sanford Zoo.
As one of the most notable attractions in Seminole County, the Zoo:
• Provides annual passes to approximately 7,000 households;
• Employs more than 100 staff members for guest services, animal care, education, facilities, horticulture, public safety, and administration;
• Cares for 350 individuals, representing 100 species of inverts, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals; and
• Is home to a “Kaboom” playground special play area and hosts popular events including Brews Around the Zoo, the Zoo Boo-Bash, and the returning Asian Lantern Festival in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc.
The Zoo generated $9.36 million in annual revenues during FY 2021/22 through promotional events, annual passes, donations, educational programs, and gate-related income.
TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL RECOMMENDATION
The Zoo presented its annual grant application at the April 20, 2023, Tourist Development Council meeting. The Zoo requested $340,000 for FY2023/24. The Tourist Development Council recommended approval for funding up to a total maximum sum of $340,000 for the annual funding allocation for marketing, advertising, maintenance, enhancements, repairs, and improvements.
INTENDED USE OF FUNDS
The intended use of the proposed $340,000 will be for marketing efforts, including radio, television, print, and digital advertising, as well as sidewalk and boardwalk improvements.
FUNDING HISTORY
FY2022/23 $325,000
FY2021/22 $300,000
FY2020/21 $300,000
FY2019/20 $390,500
FY2018/19 $355,000
FY2017/18 $325,000
FY2016/17 $325,000
FY2015/16 $225,000
FY2014/15 $225,000
FY2013/14 $225,000
FY2012/13 $225,000
FY2011/12 $225,000
FY2010/11 $225,000
FY2009/10 $225,000
FY2008/09 $300,000
FY2007/08 $300,000
FY2006/07 $300,000
FY2005/06 $270,000
FY2004/05 $270,000
FY2003/04 $270,000
The amount requested, $340,000, is budgeted in the FY2023/24 Tourism Development budget for advertising, maintenance, enhancements, repairs, and improvements.
recommendation
Staff Recommendation:
Approve and authorize the Chairman to execute an agreement with the Central Florida Zoological Society, Inc., in the amount of $340,000 for the FY2023/24 funding allocation for marketing, advertising, maintenance, enhancements, repairs, and improvements.