The Surprising Story Behind Odessa’s Privately Owned Marriott Hotel

Those who have had the opportunity to visit or reside at the Odessa Marriott Hotel and Conference Center will readily recognize it as one of the finest establishments in the historic downtown area of Odessa, Texas.

I recently had the opportunity to visit this hotel during a recent trip, and it left a very positive impression. It was surprising to find such a place in our small city.

However, it wasn't until I learned some of its history that it really intrigued me.

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The hotel itself is definitely impressive.

However, it is not just in its design and ambition, but in its ownership.

The Ownership of the Odessa Marriott Hotel

The Odessa Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, established in 2019, represents a unique collaboration between the city and private citizens, Toby and Sondra Eoff.

In contrast to the typical Marriott ownership structure, which often involves corporations or investment groups, this hotel is privately owned by the Eoffs, setting them apart as among the few individuals in the nation with such ownership.

It is important to note that allowing a private party to own and operate a Marriott is highly unorthodox and does not typically occur.

How The Odessa Marriott Hotel Was Born

The hotel began when city officials presented the Eoffs a compelling proposition to help contribute to the revitalization of downtown Odessa through investment in a premier hotel.

At the time, the Eoffs had just divested their thriving oilfield services firm, Odessa Pumps, to DistributionNOW for $170 million.

Instead of opting for a life of retirement, they chose to reinvest in their community.

"We were raised in Odessa, and we raised our boys in Odessa, so we felt this project was the right thing to do." - Sondra Eoff

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The $77 million project was a public-private undertaking, with the city contributing approximately $31 million towards infrastructure, including a conference center and parking garage.

It was reported that the Eoffs financed the hotel through Prosperity Bank.

Their initial vision extended beyond constructing a hotel; they aimed to establish a community hub, a welcoming space for both residents and visitors to convene, dine, and partake in celebrations.

Mission accomplished.  As of today, the hotel is a fine addition to downtown Odessa.