Arizona Tourism and Sports Authority Report

This report focuses on several Arizona Tourism and Sports Authority (TSA) responsibilities, including constructing a new multipurpose facility, funding tourism promotion in Maricopa County, awarding monies for youth and amateur sports facilities in Maricopa County, and to renovate or construct new Cactus League spring training facilities. The facility’s expected cost has increased nearly $40 million to $370.6 million.  Additionally, shortfalls have occurred in one of TSA’s funding sources, NFL tax revenues, which consist of all state incomes taxes paid by the Cardinal’s corporate organization, its employees (including players), and their spouses.  Statute provides for General Fund monies to make up any shortfalls in this funding source, and the Legislature may wish to consider revising statute to reduce this burden.  Further, TSA should enhance its processes for evaluating and awarding monies for youth and amateur sports and Cactus League spring training facility projects.  Finally, to ensure the most efficient and effective use of its operating funds, which consist of public monies, and appropriate use of the monies it provides for tourism promotion, TSA should make some changes to its administrative practices.