# LaPorte County Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Managers October 27, 2026


**Body:** Access LaPorte County Media
**Date:** October 26, 2026
**Jurisdiction:** SLED

**Tags:** Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence


The LaPorte County Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Managers met October 27, 2026. The board approved the September treasurer’s report and an AI use policy establishing safeguards for confidential and personal information, requiring review of AI-generated work, and setting an approval process for future uses. Staff said they are considering AI tools for tourism-focused search optimization and room bookings, and may include a budget placeholder for a future contract; no AI vendor or contract was approved. The 2027 budget is scheduled for presentation and board consideration in November. Staff also reported that the master agreements with the Park Department and Port Authority are being restructured after expiring, with updated agreements expected at the next meeting.

The board approved the proposed 2027 ESPN 1000 marketing agreement, contingent on legal review and execution in contract form. The campaign is budgeted at $98,000, up from $92,000 last year, including an added celebrity appearance for the La Porte Invitational. Members discussed Great Lakes Grand Prix spending: reported expenses were about $899,000 against an $800,000 budget, with staff expecting roughly $40,000 in charges to be reclassified; the line item is expected to remain at $800,000 next year. The board also heard that the draft budget reflects increased innkeepers’ tax collections and a projected 7% rise in health-insurance rates. No other contract awards or purchasing approvals were identified.

**Source:** Access LaPorte County Media