Crockett receives Film Friendly Texas certification, city leaders say it could boost local economy

Crockett on Tuesday was recognized by the Texas Film Commission as a Film Friendly Texas community, a designation state officials say signals readiness to host on-location production work.

"We are here today on behalf of the Texas Film Commission to recognize the city of Crockett for achieving your film friendly Texas certification," said Betty Russo, regional representative for the Gulf Coast East Texas region with the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office. She told the council the designation positions Crockett to match local businesses with production needs and could create jobs through spending on catering, construction supplies, transportation and lodging.

Speaker 1 and other council members thanked local volunteers and the Chamber of Commerce. The presenter singled out the Houston County Museum, Monroe Cook House, Camp Street Cafe and Pinewoods Fine Arts Association as local locations that could attract productions.

City leaders said the certification could raise the city’s visibility to location scouts and support small businesses that provide services to film crews. The council did not take a vote on this presentation; the recognition was ceremonial.

Betty Russo described statewide impact figures for the commission’s incentive programs between 2007 and 2023, noting substantial production spending and job creation across Texas.

The council moved on to other agenda items after the presentation; attendees said they are optimistic the certification will help local economic development.