California Hotel and Lodging Association Focuses on Advocacy
Improve the state's business climate to safeguard the hospitality sector.
The California Hotel and Lodging Association (CHLA) has announced the appointment of its new chair and board of directors, setting the stage for significant advocacy efforts on behalf of the state's more than 6,000 hotels and 235,000 hotel employees. This leadership transition is pivotal as CHLA gears up to face the challenges ahead.
Incoming CHLA Chair Kristi Allen, who serves as the Executive Vice President of Hotels at Ensemble, emphasizes the importance of proactive advocacy. She points out that issues like predatory lawsuits, excessive taxation, and unsustainable wage mandates pose threats not just to the hotels but to the entire hospitality industry. "These pressures remind us why CHLA's role as a unified, influential advocate for hospitality is essential," she says. Engaging every member is crucial for success.
Newly Elected Leadership Team
Kristi Allen takes over the role from Cormac O'Modhrain, who previously held the position of Group Vice President of Asset Management at Sunstone Hotel Investors. Alongside Allen, a talented group of officers will lead CHLA into 2026:
Leadership Positions
Vice Chair: Tom Patton, General Manager/Partner of Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara.
Secretary-Treasurer: David Craig, Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Pebblebrook Hotel Trust.
CHLA's Board of Directors for 2026
The freshly assembled 33-member Board of Directors was elected during CHLA's annual meeting at a prominent venue. This board includes a healthy mix of new and renewing members, all bringing vital expertise to bolster CHLA's advocacy initiatives.
New Appointments
Several notable new members have joined the Board:
- Robert Gleason, President & CEO of Evans Hotels
- Scott Mills, General Manager of The Garland
- Steve Choe, Dual General Manager at Marriott International - Moxy and AC Hotel Downtown Los Angeles
Renewing Members
In addition to new members, several established leaders have renewed their commitment to CHLA:
- Cab Boettcher, Owner of Mar Vista Farm & Cottage
- Laurenne Douglas, Director of Operations at Pacific Plaza Hotels
- Jon Handlery, CEO of Handlery Hotels
- Bijal Patel, CEO and Principal Partner at Coast Redwood Hospitality
- Dhruv Pagel, President of Ridgemont Hospitality
- Pragna Patel-Mueller, Founder/CEO of Samata Management
CHLA's Future Goals
With this exceptional team behind her, Kristi Allen is optimistic about navigating the future challenges of the hospitality sector in California. She believes that the collaboration among these visionary leaders will empower CHLA to effectively advocate for the industry's best interests.
Lynn S. Mohrfeld, CHLA President & CEO, echoes this sentiment. He states, "With the support of these leaders, CHLA is poised to continue leading the fight for our members and the future of hospitality in California." This statement reflects CHLA's long-standing commitment to enhancing the business environment for hotels statewide, ensuring a thriving hospitality landscape.
About the California Hotel & Lodging Association
The California Hotel & Lodging Association stands at the forefront of the hospitality industry, championing the interests of over 6,000 hotels, motels, and boutique inns across the state, which employ nearly 235,000 individuals. Established in 1893, CHLA is the largest state lodging industry association in the United States and collaborates closely with the American Hotel & Lodging Association. Their advocacy efforts are critical as they continue to support and protect the interests of their members.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the California Hotel and Lodging Association?
CHLA serves as an advocate and resource for California's hotels, working to enhance the business environment and address industry challenges.
Who is the new chair of the California Hotel and Lodging Association?
The new chair is Kristi Allen, the Executive Vice President of Hotels at Ensemble.
What are some challenges facing California hotels?
Challenges include predatory lawsuits, high taxes, and unsustainable wage mandates that jeopardize the industry's future.
What is the significance of the CHLA's Board of Directors?
The Board of Directors guides CHLA's advocacy efforts and includes members with diverse expertise to effectively represent the hospitality sector.
How many members are on CHLA's Board of Directors?
CHLA's Board of Directors comprises 33 members who are elected to support the association's goals and initiatives.
