Agenda 04/28/2026 Item # 4C (Proclamation designating May 3 - 9, 2026, as National Travel Tourism Week. To be accepted by representatives from the local tourism industry.)PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, travel and tourism are cornerstones of the economy of Collier County and Florida’s
Paradise Coast, encompassing Naples, Marco Island, and the Everglades, supporting
hundreds of local businesses, generating substantial tax revenues for the County, and
sustaining a high quality of life for residents; and
WHEREAS, in the last fiscal year, the tourism industry was a primary employer and economic driver in
the region, supporting more than 28,000 jobs, generating $49,827,537 in Tourist
Development Tax (TDT) revenues, contributing $2,884,378,000 in visitor spending, and
producing a total economic impact of $3,986,720,500 while reducing the tax burden on
residents by almost $1,700 per household; and
WHEREAS, in 2025, Collier County welcomed over 2,808,800 visitors, generating revenues that fund
and enhance critical community assets, including beach renourishment and shoreline
protection, arts and cultural institutions, and world-class recreational amenities; and
WHEREAS, Collier County’s natural beauty, from its 30 miles of pristine beaches to the unmatched
ecosystems of the Everglades National Park, combined with its luxury accommodations,
vibrant culinary scene, and rich arts and cultural offerings, positions Florida’s Paradise
Coast as a premier global destination; and
WHEREAS, the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention and Visitors Bureau, in partnership with
local municipalities, industry stakeholders, and community organizations, plays a vital role
in promoting the destination locally, nationally, and internationally, driving visitation and
ensuring sustainable tourism development; and
WHEREAS, the observance of National Travel and Tourism Week, May 3 – 9, 2026, provides an
opportunity to recognize the contributions of Collier County’s tourism industry and honors
the hospitality workforce whose dedication creates exceptional visitor experiences and
sustains this critical economic driver for our region;
NOW THEREFORE, be it proclaimed by the Board of County Commissioners of Collier County, Florida,
that May 3 - 9, 2026, be designated as
NATIONAL TRAVEL AND TOURISM WEEK IN COLLIER COUNTY
DONE AND ORDERED THIS 28th Day of April 2026.
Board of County Commissioners
Collier County, Florida
Dan Kowal, Chairman