Published: April 25, 2009 12:00 PM By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star
The ongoing recession has put the bite on finances for a lot of people, but many of them are still looking to get away for a few days. That’s the view coming from the City of Vernon’s new tourism advisory committee. “It’s an obvious concern but the Okanagan is such a hot destination and people want to come here,” said Robin Baycroft, committee chairman, of the recession. While he anticipates a possible drop in visitors from across the country and around the world, Baycroft believes Vernon could see more people from B.C. and Alberta. “People aren’t going to Hawaii or Mexico but they are out driving and staying closer to home,” he said. The committee — which is made up of tourism stakeholders — recently held its first meeting and it will make recommendations to council on issues relating to marketing and strategic planning for the sector. “We’re getting an inventory done on the different tourism partners in Greater Vernon. We need to understand the industry so we can market it to the region and the world,” said Baycroft. “The big part is getting people to stay another night in Vernon. We want to make sure people are aware of all of the activities they can do here.”
Key to marketing will be the two per cent room tax at all Vernon hotels and motels. “The tax provides new funds that must be spent on growing tourism in Vernon,” said Baycroft. It was originally expected the levy could generate $420,000 a year, although that figure may be lower because of the recession. Currently, the tax only applies to accommodations in Vernon and not to Silver Star Mountain Resort, where Baycroft works. Baycroft will not vote on any matters relating to how the tax revenue is spent. “I can moderate discussions and it gives me a chance to be one-step removed,” said Baycroft, who defends Silver Star being part of the advisory committee. “It’s a committee that’s responsible for all tourism and Silver Star is a big part of that in the region.”
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