New Board and Chair Lead CHLA’s Advocacy to Support California Hotels: All You Need To Know

Published on December 9, 2025

The California Hotel & Lodging Association (CHLA) is placing a significant focus on business advocacy to protect and enhance the future of California’s hospitality industry in 2026. Representing over 6,000 hotels across the state and employing more than 235,000 hotel workers, the CHLA is committed to addressing the challenges currently facing California’s hotels and ensuring the industry remains a vital economic engine for the state.

With the appointment of Kristi Allen as the new Chair of the CHLA Board of Directors, the association is set to continue advocating for policies that support the growth and success of the state’s diverse and dynamic hotel sector. Allen, who serves as the Executive Vice President of Hotels at Ensemble, takes over from Cormac O’Modhrain, the Group Vice President of Asset Management at Sunstone Hotel Investors, who transitions to Immediate Past Chair.

Advocating for a Stronger Business Environment for California Hotels

In 2026, CHLA’s top priorities will focus on combating predatory lawsuits, unsustainable wage mandates, and onerous taxes that negatively impact hotels and their employees. As the hospitality industry faces increasing pressures, the association is rallying its members to engage with advocacy efforts that will help preserve the health and success of California’s hotel industry.

California’s hotels are essential to the state’s tourism economy, and the CHLA’s leadership will be key to pushing for changes that alleviate the growing burden on the sector. By advocating for more favorable legislation, CHLA aims to ensure that hotels continue to thrive and contribute to the state’s economy while providing high-quality employment opportunities to thousands of workers.

New Leadership and Expanded Board of Directors

In addition to the appointment of Kristi Allen as Chair, the CHLA has elected a new slate of officers and a refreshed Board of Directors for 2026. Among the new members are prominent figures such as Robert Gleason, President & CEO of Evans Hotels, and Scott Mills, General Manager of The Garland. These additions bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the association’s advocacy efforts, ensuring that CHLA remains at the forefront of hospitality issues in California.

Alongside the new members, several directors have renewed their terms, including Cab Boettcher, Owner of Mar Vista Farm & Cottage, and Bijal Patel, CEO of Coast Redwood Hospitality. These seasoned professionals bring invaluable experience to the board, further enhancing CHLA’s ability to lead and support the California hotel industry in the coming year.

Supporting the Future of California Hospitality

As the largest state lodging industry association in the nation, CHLA plays a critical role in providing resources and advocacy for California’s hotels, motels, and boutique inns. The association not only works to address regulatory and legislative challenges but also supports its members with industry insights, education, and best practices to ensure that the state’s hotels remain competitive in a fast-evolving market.

In 2026, CHLA is focused on maintaining California’s leading position as a global tourism destination. With a growing number of visitors each year, including those attending major events such as Mardi Gras and the Super Bowl, the need for strong advocacy and support for the hotel industry has never been more critical. CHLA’s ongoing efforts aim to ensure that California’s hospitality sector can continue to meet the demands of visitors while offering exceptional experiences for guests and a positive work environment for employees.

A Strong Future for California Hotels

As 2026 unfolds, the California Hotel & Lodging Association is primed to lead the charge in advocating for policies that support both the businesses and employees of the state’s hotel industry. With new leadership and a renewed board of directors, CHLA is ready to take on the challenges of the year ahead and work towards a brighter future for California’s hotel sector.

For travelers, the strength of California’s hotel industry ensures that visitors can enjoy world-class accommodations, from luxury hotels to boutique inns, all while benefiting from the commitment of hotel staff dedicated to delivering an exceptional guest experience. With CHLA’s advocacy guiding the way, California’s hotel industry is set to continue thriving and growing in the years to come.