# Sep 28, 2026 - ECON Committee Worksession


**Body:** MoCoCouncilMD
**Date:** September 29, 2026
**Jurisdiction:** SLED

**Tags:** Professional Services, Construction & Infrastructure, Grants & Funding, Contracting Vehicles


The Montgomery County Economic Development Committee held a worksession on September 28, 2026, focusing primarily on the strategic plan and funding model for Visit Montgomery, the county's destination marketing organization (DMO). The committee reviewed a comprehensive brand assessment and strategic plan aimed at enhancing Montgomery County's position as a premier cultural and tourism destination. Key discussion points included the need to increase Visit Montgomery's budget to better compete with neighboring jurisdictions like Fairfax County, which has significantly higher funding and staffing for tourism promotion. The committee considered options such as establishing a tourism improvement district or a voluntary district to generate additional revenue. They also discussed creating a grants fund to support local events and sports tourism initiatives, as well as updating the resolution governing the sports tourism task force to formalize its role. Members emphasized the importance of digital marketing, community engagement, and leveraging Montgomery County's unique assets to boost overnight visitation, which has declined since the pandemic. The committee agreed to draft a letter to the incoming county executive recommending a review of Visit Montgomery's base budget and the potential establishment of an incentive fund, with further discussions planned in upcoming joint committee sessions.

**Source:** MoCoCouncilMD