State tourism official congratulates Buda on 'tourism‑friendly' certification, cites local visitor spending

Buda was formally recognized by a state tourism program during Monday’s City Council meeting, with a representative from the governor’s office saying the designation reflects the city’s investments in events and attractions that draw visitors.

"Like she said, my name is Spencer Zamora. I'm with the governor's office economic development tourism team, better known as Bridal Texas, and I'm very happy to be here tonight to talk a little bit about our program and discover Buda," Spencer Zamora told council as he outlined the Tourism Friendly Texas program and its goals. Zamora said the certification, created in 2024, aims to help communities build tourism as an economic development strategy and connect local officials to resources and grants.

Zamora cited local tourism metrics that staff provided as part of the proclamation: travel‑related spending and jobs tied to local tourism. He noted Buda’s calendar of events and visitor amenities — historic downtown, the amphitheater, City and Stagecoach parks, and community festivals — as factors that make the city a candidate for the program.

Council and city staff said the designation will help the city access state resources for visitor promotion and sports‑tourism initiatives already under development. Staff asked the public to view the city’s events calendar and tourism map online for details about programs and grant opportunities.

The proclamation was read into the record and a photo was taken with council and the state representative. Council did not take separate action beyond the ceremonial recognition.