Bonita Springs, Florida – April 10, 2017 – Today, Representative Francis Rooney (R-FL) toured Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa as part of the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s (AHLA) “Heart of the House” hotel tour program. In its fourth year, this program connects members of Congress to a lodging facility in their district for the opportunity to gain insights as to how the industry creates jobs, offers a pathway for lifelong careers, and enhances the local economy and community.

Florida generates over $84 billion in hotel sales and plays a vital role in strengthening the state’s economy. As a popular vacation destination, the Sunshine State supports more than 633,000 hospitality jobs and boosts the local economy as guests spend more than $39 billion annually at hotels, local businesses, and on transportation. Review the facts and figures on how Florida contributes to the economy and local job market by clicking here.

“Florida attracts hundreds of millions of tourists each year and the strength of the economy continues to grow. I am grateful for the opportunity to see the state’s strong economy at work by touring the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa and meet its hard-working employees,” said Representative Francis Rooney. “As a businessman and a member of the Education and Workforce Committee, I understand the importance of how critical job growth is to Southwest Florida. What the hotel industry is doing to create jobs and lifelong careers for people while contributing to the Sunshine State’s and our nation’s economy is commendable.”

Today’s tour was led by General Manager of Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa, Brian Kramer, and was accompanied by Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association’s (FRLA) Southwest Regional Director, Lois Croft. The tour was followed by a roundtable discussion on issues facing the industry such as travel and tourism, healthcare, and the rise of commercial activity from short-term rentals. Representatives from local hotels around the area also participated in the roundtable discussion, as well as Rey Martinez, Hyatt Residence Club Coconut Plantation Resort and FRLA SW Florida Chapter President.

“As a proud Floridian and hotelier, it was an honor to showcase Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa and introduce Representative Rooney to so many of our colleagues,” said Brian Kramer, general manager, Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa. “This industry tells a unique story of employee success and job growth. Hyatt’s mission is to care for people so they can be their best, while serving our guests; our colleagues work tirelessly to build upon that success to help drive the economy of Bonita Springs, Florida, and beyond.”

AHLA engages with members of Congress on the “Heart of the House” hotel tours to provide an in-depth look at the career opportunities available as well as the economic and community impact of the lodging industry.