The Bastrop City Council and Bastrop Economic Development Corporation convened on December 3, 2024, to discuss key issues surrounding tourism and economic development in the region. The meeting focused on the current state of tourism in Bastrop, particularly the challenges and opportunities presented by the local hotel industry and the potential for sports tourism.

One of the primary topics addressed was the event-driven nature of tourism in Bastrop. It was noted that hotels experience high demand during weekends, especially during major events, while midweek bookings tend to be slower. The months from November to February are typically less busy for tourism, although proximity to Camp Swift provides a steady influx of military personnel, which helps maintain hotel occupancy.

A significant concern raised during the meeting was the insufficient number of hotel rooms to meet the growing demand, particularly as events in the area continue to increase. The presence of major companies like Tesla and SpaceX was highlighted, as their employees contribute to the visitor mix in Bastrop.

The discussion also included the potential benefits of partnering with a private operator to manage local facilities. Emphasis was placed on the importance of third-party management in driving sports tourism, as these operators can leverage their networks to attract events and optimize facility usage. The need for a dedicated marketing and business development plan was underscored, along with the importance of collaboration between public and private entities to ensure the success of local tourism initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the necessity of maintaining high-quality facilities and a variety of lodging and entertainment options to attract visitors. The council recognized that a strong reputation and effective performance metrics are crucial for ensuring repeat visitation from event attendees.

Overall, the joint meeting highlighted the need for strategic planning and collaboration to enhance Bastrop's tourism sector and address the challenges posed by increasing demand for accommodations and event facilities.