Orange council approves contracts for televised fishing, jet-ski and drag-boat events

The Orange City Council voted Jan. 27 to approve a package of event agreements the city says are designed to boost tourism and hotel stays.

The council approved a contract with the Elite Fishing Series to host a nationally televised tournament at the City Boat Ramp in September 2026 for a fee of $19,865. Miss Williams, a city staff member presenting the item, said the agreement includes a broadcast package and staff recommended approval. Jeremy Reeves, a local resident who earlier asked the council for partnership, told the council the series could “reach millions” and requested city support to maximize overnight stays and economic benefit.

Council also approved a performance agreement for a jet-ski racing event scheduled for March 2026 at the City Boat Ramp for a fee of $26,500. Staff told council the fee estimate came from the promoter and that the cost is included in the CVB budget; Miss Williams stated staff recommended the agreement.

The council approved a special-event agreement with the Deep South Racing Association (DSRA) to host drag-boat races the weekend of May 16–17, 2026 at the same ramp. Randy Wheat, DSRA president, said the event typically draws “40 to 45 race teams traveling in from across the country” and several hundred spectators and described the event as family oriented and free to the public.

The meeting also included public comment from Grama Gaspar, who asked council to support the Southeast Texas Craft Barbecue Festival planned for March 7 at the Riverside Pavilion, and a preview of the city’s Mardi Gras programming from the Explore Orange Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Votes at a glance
- Contract with Elite Fishing Series (Sept. 2026), fee $19,865 — approved (council voiced 'Aye').
- Jet-ski racing performance agreement (March 2026), fee $26,500 — approved (council voiced 'Aye').
- Deep South Racing Association drag-boat races (May 16–17, 2026), fee $16,000 — approved (council voiced 'Aye').

Council members and staff said funding for the agreements is covered by the CVB/special-services budget items already adopted for the fiscal year. The agreements now move forward to whatever contract-execution steps the city requires; the events remain scheduled on the dates announced by promoters.