MCCFA and developer say hotel needs extra financing; NCA could bridge gap

Pam Plageman, representing the Montgomery County Convention Facilities Authority, told the hearing that convention‑district investment has exceeded $700 million and that a new nationally branded headquarter hotel is necessary for Dayton to compete for larger conventions and meetings.

Plageman said the NCA is a tool used by other Ohio communities and can support neighborhood and downtown investments alike. "The renovated convention center has improved Dayton’s ability to compete for regional conventions and events," Plageman said, adding that the NCA is not intended to support only a single district. She described more than $700 million in prior improvements and said adding a branded headquarter hotel would increase convention business.

Carl Hren, Executive Vice President of Development for Concord Hospitality, said the proposed Marriott Tribute Portfolio hotel involves private investment but still requires additional financing to address a funding gap. Hren described Concord’s commitment to the project and said the hotel’s expected obligations could arise in late 2026 with an estimated opening in the fourth quarter of 2028.

Supporters, including a representative of Destination Dayton, estimated roughly $25 million in additional regional economic impact from future events tied to a new headquarter hotel, while residents urged clarity on the hotel contract, long‑term obligations, tax incentives and how neighborhood priorities would be protected.