The Cleburne City Council meeting on August 12, 2025, focused on the importance of local tourism and the financial support needed for the city's conference and event facilities. Key discussions highlighted the ongoing efforts to attract conferences, reunions, and meetings to Cleburne, emphasizing the role of local organizations in utilizing the city’s pavilion for their gatherings.

City representatives reported that they spend approximately $50,000 annually on advertising to promote Cleburne as a tourist destination. This includes partnerships with the Chamber of Commerce and the distribution of brochures at travel centers across Texas. Notably, a recent collaboration with Chevy has resulted in a commercial that has garnered over 100,000 views, further enhancing the city’s visibility.

Tracking visitor numbers has become increasingly challenging due to new legislation that restricts hotels from sharing guest information. As a result, the city has implemented a QR code check-in system at the museum to collect data on visitors, including their origins and party sizes. To date, the museum has recorded 37,477 visitors, not including an additional estimated 5,400 to 6,000 attendees from a recent event related to Guam.

In light of these developments, the city is seeking $130,000 in funding, a reduction from the previously requested $150,000. This funding is crucial for maintaining staff salaries and supporting ongoing tourism initiatives. The city anticipates that by the end of the year, visitor numbers will exceed 70,000, showcasing the potential return on investment for the funds allocated to tourism efforts. The council expressed confidence in the positive impact of these initiatives on the local economy.