Convention & Visitors Bureau Reports Tourism Growth, Job Creation for 2011

Brad Calkins, Executive Director of the Santa Rosa Convention & Visitors Bureau, is proud to announce that in the first full year of operations under the new Business Improvement Area (BIA) format, the positive effect on the Santa Rosa economy was outstanding.

In 2011, Santa Rosa hotels saw revenue growth of $2,361,789 compared to 2010, adding an additional $212,561 in increased Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) dollars to the City of Santa Rosa’s general fund.

Moreover, it's estimated that an additional 146 direct jobs were created as a result of the $2.3 million growth. As a result of these increases, economic models estimate that total tourism spending increased by $6,896,456 for the year. Not included in these calculations are the additional tax dollars generated for the city of Santa Rosa's general fund, nor increases due to indirect supplier and consumer spending or spending based on job creation.

"The CVB is dedicated to promoting Santa Rosa, our place of plenty, as a premier destination," said Mr. Calkins, "and outcomes like this are reflective of the bounty of our offerings."