Showing posts with label tourism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tourism. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Hotel Tax Rising
Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 KISS FM Pete McIntyre October 11, 2017 12:19 pm
Vernon’s hotel tax will be going up next year. The current 2 percent tax charged to hotel and motel guests will jump to 3 percent on January 1 after the city got provincial approval for the change. It’s expected to bring in an extra 300-thousand dollars a year for tourism marketing and programs. The City of Vernon will receive 2.8% of the 3%, officially called the municipal regional district tax (MRDT), with the rest going to the provincial Tourism Events Program. “There are over fifty community in BC collecting the MRDT including fourteen that moved to a 3%. Kelowna and Kamloops began collecting a 3% MRDT on July 1, 2017,” says Vernon’s economic development and tourism manager Kevin Poole. Poole says date from BC Stats indicates Vernon has had the fastest growing MRDT in the Thompson Okanagan each and every year since its first full year of collecting in 2011. “This strong growth has continued into 2017, with room revenue up 8.3% as of the end of July 2017.”
Tuesday, August 09, 2016
Hotel tax bump OK'd
By Wayne Moore - CASTANET Aug 9, 2016 / 5:00 am
As expected, Kelowna council has rubber stamped a request to increase the city's hotel room tax from two per cent to three per cent. The measure, once approved by the province, is expected to come into effect April 1 of next year. The tax is administered by the city, with all funds going directly to Tourism Kelowna for outside marketing. Tourism Kelowna asked for the increase in order to increase marketing in Ontario, market the city in areas with high potential – such as the Western U.S. and Eastern Canada, and increase the city's exposure overseas in co-operation with provincial and national marketing organizations. Currently, Tourism Kelowna says these areas are beyond the reach of their current resources. Over the past 12 months, the hotel room tax brought in slightly more than $1.85 million. It's expected to realize an additional $231,000 over four months during 2016-2017 and $914,000 in 2017-2018. Coun. Luke Stack did ask whether it would have been wise to keep the room rate lower to attract more visitors. "Hotels have to agree to this, so we've met one-on-one with all of our properties and this hasn't come up," said Tourism Kelowna CEO Nancy Cameron. "We know when people are purchasing accommodation, they aren't necessarily influenced by the tax level of that destination. In fact, British Columbia, at two per cent, is one of the lowest provinces in terms of a hotel tax." She said aside from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, the rest are at three per cent, or higher. Cameron said the rate can go as high as five per cent, while some provinces have a combination of a hotel tax and provincial tax. Tourism Kelowna has the support of 65.5 per cent of all accommodation providers, amounting to 84.4 per cent of rooms in the city. The requirement to increase the tax was 50 per cent on both sides. The city instituted the hotel room tax in 2004.
As expected, Kelowna council has rubber stamped a request to increase the city's hotel room tax from two per cent to three per cent. The measure, once approved by the province, is expected to come into effect April 1 of next year. The tax is administered by the city, with all funds going directly to Tourism Kelowna for outside marketing. Tourism Kelowna asked for the increase in order to increase marketing in Ontario, market the city in areas with high potential – such as the Western U.S. and Eastern Canada, and increase the city's exposure overseas in co-operation with provincial and national marketing organizations. Currently, Tourism Kelowna says these areas are beyond the reach of their current resources. Over the past 12 months, the hotel room tax brought in slightly more than $1.85 million. It's expected to realize an additional $231,000 over four months during 2016-2017 and $914,000 in 2017-2018. Coun. Luke Stack did ask whether it would have been wise to keep the room rate lower to attract more visitors. "Hotels have to agree to this, so we've met one-on-one with all of our properties and this hasn't come up," said Tourism Kelowna CEO Nancy Cameron. "We know when people are purchasing accommodation, they aren't necessarily influenced by the tax level of that destination. In fact, British Columbia, at two per cent, is one of the lowest provinces in terms of a hotel tax." She said aside from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, the rest are at three per cent, or higher. Cameron said the rate can go as high as five per cent, while some provinces have a combination of a hotel tax and provincial tax. Tourism Kelowna has the support of 65.5 per cent of all accommodation providers, amounting to 84.4 per cent of rooms in the city. The requirement to increase the tax was 50 per cent on both sides. The city instituted the hotel room tax in 2004.
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
Tourism MRDT Update
https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/meetings/agendas/160518_tac_agenda.pdf
THAT the Tourism Advisory Committee recommends that Council proceed with implementation of an additional 1% increase to the Municipal Regional District Tax.
A history of 2% MRDT Collected
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https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/adopted_2016-2020_financial_plan.pdf P.86
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The difference between the $616,621 shown as MRDT revenue for 2015 and the actual budget figure shown in 2016 budget is that the $557,817 shown is only for the Jan to Oct 31 period. The last 2 months of Nov & Dec. if added would bring the actual figure to $616,521.
THAT the Tourism Advisory Committee recommends that Council proceed with implementation of an additional 1% increase to the Municipal Regional District Tax.
A history of 2% MRDT Collected
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https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/adopted_2016-2020_financial_plan.pdf P.86
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The difference between the $616,621 shown as MRDT revenue for 2015 and the actual budget figure shown in 2016 budget is that the $557,817 shown is only for the Jan to Oct 31 period. The last 2 months of Nov & Dec. if added would bring the actual figure to $616,521.
Saturday, April 02, 2016
Why not three per cent?
by Kate Bouey - CASTANET Apr 1, 2016 / 2:29 pm
Vernon Tourism is hoping to up the funds it earns from the city's tourism tax, charged on hotel and motel room rates. Currently, the tax sits at two per cent, but 27 local hostelry managers are being asked if they would agree to a hike in the rate for 2017. The plan has already been given assent by the tourism committee, which has some local hotel representatives. “Personally, the big question was 'how do the hotel managers feel about it?' And they don't seem to think there's a problem,” said Coun. Catherine Lord, who acts as an alternate for council on the committee. “There are a fair number of communities in B.C., some of the larger cities, that do have that – and they haven't, I don't think, found any particular issue with it,” said Lord, stressing it's “better for our tourism, in order to promote our area.” In 2015, the City of Vernon earned $616,621 from its two per cent tax on local hotel room rentals, the largest sum yet collected by the city. “This is a 15.1 per cent increase over 2014,” said Kevin Poole, economic development and tourism officer, in a report to city council. The money is used to promote Vernon as a tourist destination.
Vernon Tourism is hoping to up the funds it earns from the city's tourism tax, charged on hotel and motel room rates. Currently, the tax sits at two per cent, but 27 local hostelry managers are being asked if they would agree to a hike in the rate for 2017. The plan has already been given assent by the tourism committee, which has some local hotel representatives. “Personally, the big question was 'how do the hotel managers feel about it?' And they don't seem to think there's a problem,” said Coun. Catherine Lord, who acts as an alternate for council on the committee. “There are a fair number of communities in B.C., some of the larger cities, that do have that – and they haven't, I don't think, found any particular issue with it,” said Lord, stressing it's “better for our tourism, in order to promote our area.” In 2015, the City of Vernon earned $616,621 from its two per cent tax on local hotel room rentals, the largest sum yet collected by the city. “This is a 15.1 per cent increase over 2014,” said Kevin Poole, economic development and tourism officer, in a report to city council. The money is used to promote Vernon as a tourist destination.
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
New tourism website
By Darren Handschuh -CASTANET Feb 16, 2016 / 4:52 pm
The City of Vernon has launched a new Tourism Vernon website. The $30,000 tourism site was developed by eSolutions Group to showcase Vernon as a four seasons destination to attract more visitors year round. “Vernon has grown as a destination, so our tourism products and services have developed to attract both Canadian and international visitors,” said Ange Chew, tourism manager for City of Vernon and Tourism Vernon. The Tourism Vernon site was developed with a focus on improved visual storytelling about Vernon and the surrounding area, the area’s tourism products and services, new content to drive shoulder-season visitation, ease of navigation and functionality, accessibility and responsive design for mobile, table and desktop formats. Tourism industry partners praised the new website. “I really like how Tourism Vernon’s new site appeals to so many different kinds of thinkers with the different ways of finding the same information," said Leah Campbell, social media and marketing manager for Davison Orchards. “We can’t wait to see how this helps Vernon reach more potential travellers.” Walt Judas, CEO of Tourism Industry Association of BC also commented, saying “the new site looks terrific. Love the layout, content and easy navigation.”
Monday, September 21, 2015
Money for Small/Rural Tourist Centres
Posted on 9/21/2015 by Ron Manz 107.5KISSFM
Destination BC, the province's tourist marketing organization, announced a 3 year base funding model for community visitor centres in 108 locations around BC today. Vernon, Lumby, Sicamous, Salmon Arm, Armstrong and Enderby will all be receiving $10-thousand dollars annually over the next three years.The money is a new minimum base for small and rural community visitor centres that will be available along with an innovation fund to help cover changing needs of visitors including use of technology.Tourism is an economic driver in BC with$13.9 billion in revenue generated through it in 2013.
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Don Quixote Note: It appears that the announced $10,000 grant will be less than the $25,000 we got in 2014 and budgeted for in 2015. (Unless this is an additional new grant for Visitor Centres where we are not showing any grant monies for 2014 or 2015)
http://www.vernon.ca/services/finance/documents/150422_Adopted_Financial_Plan.pdf
At above link you can find the Tourism Budget for 2015. The taxpayers share is shown at page 85 while the MRDT side (Where Hotel tax monies flow) is at page 88.The Visitor centre budget is on page 302.
Destination BC, the province's tourist marketing organization, announced a 3 year base funding model for community visitor centres in 108 locations around BC today. Vernon, Lumby, Sicamous, Salmon Arm, Armstrong and Enderby will all be receiving $10-thousand dollars annually over the next three years.The money is a new minimum base for small and rural community visitor centres that will be available along with an innovation fund to help cover changing needs of visitors including use of technology.Tourism is an economic driver in BC with$13.9 billion in revenue generated through it in 2013.
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Don Quixote Note: It appears that the announced $10,000 grant will be less than the $25,000 we got in 2014 and budgeted for in 2015. (Unless this is an additional new grant for Visitor Centres where we are not showing any grant monies for 2014 or 2015)
http://www.vernon.ca/services/finance/documents/150422_Adopted_Financial_Plan.pdf
At above link you can find the Tourism Budget for 2015. The taxpayers share is shown at page 85 while the MRDT side (Where Hotel tax monies flow) is at page 88.The Visitor centre budget is on page 302.
Wednesday, August 05, 2015
Tourism funds expand
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Aug 5, 2015 at 1:00 AM— updated Aug 5, 2015 at 5:56 AM
Additional money could be pumped into Vernon tourism marketing but not for a few years. The provincial government has initiated a new program to promote B.C.’s tourism sector, including increasing the maximum municipal hotel room tax from two to three per cent. “There could be an impact for the city but not until 2020 because we just renewed our tax agreement for five years,” said Ange Chew, Vernon’s tourism manager. The province’s tourism events program will support the planning, marketing and organization of events and celebrations that offer a high tourism value. Events could include arts, cultural or sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup or Canada Winter Games. Chew won’t speculate on whether the Vernon hotel room tax will increase. “Upon 2020, it (increased tax) will be under consideration and we would have a discussion with our accommodation partners about three per cent,” she said. Tourism Vancouver is the first eligible organization to request the room tax increase. It takes effect Sept. 1. “We know hosting events is an important way to grow our tourism sector and the new tourism events program is a great way to build on the successes of the 2010 Winter Olympics, the Canada Winter Games and the FIFA Women’s World Cup,” said Shirley Bond, B.C.’s jobs minister. “These investments mean we can further strengthen our reputation as a world-class event hosting destination and increase the number of visitors to B.C.”
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http://www.vernon.ca/services/finance/documents/150422_Adopted_Financial_Plan.pdf
At above link you can find the Tourism Budget for 2015. The taxpayers share is shown at page 85 while the MRDT side (Where Hotel tax monies flow) is at page 88.The Visitor centre budget is on page 302.
Additional money could be pumped into Vernon tourism marketing but not for a few years. The provincial government has initiated a new program to promote B.C.’s tourism sector, including increasing the maximum municipal hotel room tax from two to three per cent. “There could be an impact for the city but not until 2020 because we just renewed our tax agreement for five years,” said Ange Chew, Vernon’s tourism manager. The province’s tourism events program will support the planning, marketing and organization of events and celebrations that offer a high tourism value. Events could include arts, cultural or sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup or Canada Winter Games. Chew won’t speculate on whether the Vernon hotel room tax will increase. “Upon 2020, it (increased tax) will be under consideration and we would have a discussion with our accommodation partners about three per cent,” she said. Tourism Vancouver is the first eligible organization to request the room tax increase. It takes effect Sept. 1. “We know hosting events is an important way to grow our tourism sector and the new tourism events program is a great way to build on the successes of the 2010 Winter Olympics, the Canada Winter Games and the FIFA Women’s World Cup,” said Shirley Bond, B.C.’s jobs minister. “These investments mean we can further strengthen our reputation as a world-class event hosting destination and increase the number of visitors to B.C.”
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http://www.vernon.ca/services/finance/documents/150422_Adopted_Financial_Plan.pdf
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| Visitor Centre Cost (Taxpayer) $14,846 |
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| City Taxpayers Net Cost $108,587. |
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| MRDT Net Zero budget. |
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
'Active by Nature'
by Wayne Moore CASTANET - Jun 30, 2015 / 5:40 am
Kelowna's mayor was unable to temper his enthusiasm for a rebranding of the city. 'Active by Nature' was unveiled Monday. It is described as a program that will promote and connect residents to many of the city's assets. It's designed to support existing programs such as the pedestrian and bicycle master plan, healthy city strategy and strong neighbourhoods program. "This is how council believes we should be branding our community, as a great place for healthy and active living," an enthusiastic Mayor Colin Basran said. "This is how we should be promoting ourselves. We have so many beautiful, natural assets. We've done a pretty good job of promoting them, but this just brings it to a whole different level." The city has spent millions of dollars building an active transportation network and, while Basran said the city plans to continue that growth, promoting those assets is just as important. Development of the program began a year ago with a $100,000 BikeBC grant to construct wayfinding signage and was boosted by council's decision to add ongoing funding of $20,000 through the 2015 budget. Signs will be installed throughout Phases 1 and 2 of the Rails with Trails corridor, and along key active transportation links to the corridor in the city's active transportation network. Prototype signs are being developed, and installation will occur throughout June and July. Along with signage, the city has developed an interactive online map and video that shows tourists and residents alike where to find Kelowna's active transportation network. Communications consultant Janine Taylor said the program highlights the city's many bike paths, running routes, paddling routes and swimming opportunities. "We wanted to bring those visuals forward, to brag about it a little. This is a great place to get out and get active," said Taylor. "While people in Kelowna are Active by Nature, we're also active because of the nature around us, and that's why we felt 'Active by Nature' was such a great name." Basran added the program is essential to the city's brand, moving forward. "This is how we are going to tell our story to the world. This is how we are going to attract and retain the young people we talk about attracting and retaining," said Basran. "As someone who has just returned from a trip to Boulder (Colorado), where they are doing exactly this and having great success, this is huge. I don't think we can understate just how valuable this (is)."
Kelowna's mayor was unable to temper his enthusiasm for a rebranding of the city. 'Active by Nature' was unveiled Monday. It is described as a program that will promote and connect residents to many of the city's assets. It's designed to support existing programs such as the pedestrian and bicycle master plan, healthy city strategy and strong neighbourhoods program. "This is how council believes we should be branding our community, as a great place for healthy and active living," an enthusiastic Mayor Colin Basran said. "This is how we should be promoting ourselves. We have so many beautiful, natural assets. We've done a pretty good job of promoting them, but this just brings it to a whole different level." The city has spent millions of dollars building an active transportation network and, while Basran said the city plans to continue that growth, promoting those assets is just as important. Development of the program began a year ago with a $100,000 BikeBC grant to construct wayfinding signage and was boosted by council's decision to add ongoing funding of $20,000 through the 2015 budget. Signs will be installed throughout Phases 1 and 2 of the Rails with Trails corridor, and along key active transportation links to the corridor in the city's active transportation network. Prototype signs are being developed, and installation will occur throughout June and July. Along with signage, the city has developed an interactive online map and video that shows tourists and residents alike where to find Kelowna's active transportation network. Communications consultant Janine Taylor said the program highlights the city's many bike paths, running routes, paddling routes and swimming opportunities. "We wanted to bring those visuals forward, to brag about it a little. This is a great place to get out and get active," said Taylor. "While people in Kelowna are Active by Nature, we're also active because of the nature around us, and that's why we felt 'Active by Nature' was such a great name." Basran added the program is essential to the city's brand, moving forward. "This is how we are going to tell our story to the world. This is how we are going to attract and retain the young people we talk about attracting and retaining," said Basran. "As someone who has just returned from a trip to Boulder (Colorado), where they are doing exactly this and having great success, this is huge. I don't think we can understate just how valuable this (is)."
Thursday, June 25, 2015
New and Exciting Signs to Enhance City of Vernon
North Okanagan posted June 25, 2015 by Cassandra Jeffery
The City of Vernon is moving forward with a new signage project that is expected to promote tourism and draw attention to the city centre and downtown region.
Photo Credit: contributed.
Public parking areas in the downtown region will be more adequately signed as a result of this new project, including four different parking lots that will promote free weekend parking.
Photo Credit: contributed.
Development of a new wayfinding signing system was identified as a key priority by the Downtown Vernon Association and numerous Council Committees, including tourism, transportation, and accessibility.
The next phase of the wayfinding sign project will include expanding the signs beyond the City Centre and designing and installing cycling and pedestrian level signage.
Photo Credit: contributed.
“You first want to help people get to destinations or parking areas by either a motor vehicle or self-propelled, like biking or skateboard,” said Cleo Corbett, Long Range Planner and Project Coordinator. “You then want to help them get around on foot. It has been really fun working with Council, Council Committees, the Downtown Vernon Association and our consultants to come up with a design and wayfinding system that is up-to-date and aims to reflect Vernon’s character, identity and opportunity.”
According to the City of Vernon, the new signs have a modern design and use colours that match the Vernon brand. They are designed to be colourful and playful, depicting Vernon has an active and lively City. Some of the signs will also feature rendered art posters.
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
Vernon Gets New Brand
Posted on 6/22/2015 by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM
'Make It Yours' is out, and 'Activate Life' is in, as the City of Vernon's new community brand. City council has approved that slogan for marketing campaigns after it was developed by the economic development advisory committee which got input from residents, visitors and stakeholders. Committee spokesman Glenn Benischek says they had 1,018 respondents to a survey at the Visitor Info Centre and online. "It was a robust process. and the outcome will prove itself, " Benischek told city council. Councillor Catherine Lord says the brand "kind of grows on you." "From some of the examples I've seen , where it says 'Activate Your Menu' or 'Activiate Your Golf Game,' you can use that with almost anything, so I think our commercial people and our business community is going to embrace it," Lord tells Kiss FM. Mayor Akbal Mund says the committee did a good job gathering input and coming up with the brand. "I think they've done their research well, and they talked to not only the residents here but residents who don't live here, and both think of Vernon as an active place." Councillor Bob Spiers isn't sure the time and money spent on developing the past or present slogans is really worth it. "I'm as happy with this one as I was with the last one. I don't know what it achieves," says Spiers. Economic development manager Kevin Poole says the city has spent about 15-thousand dollars so far on developing the brand, which staff will next attempt to have trademarked. "We will embrace it in all our tourism and marketing campaigns,"says Poole.
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From agenda Package June 22 P.52
The costs associated with this project to date has been $14,247.25. Of this, $9,896.25 was for the services of Tambellini Design to develop the graphic design, brand promise and facilitate the Branding Task Force meetings. An additional $4,351 from the Web Advisors was utilized for surveying non-residents and compiling the results. The funds were spent in 2014 and were taken from the Economic Development Projects Budget.
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Canada Trademark Registry Search
http://vernonblog.blogspot.ca/2010/01/city-of-vernon-unveils-new-logo.html
(Above Posting when last slogan was introduced in 2010)
The logo design project was funded entirely through a Union of BC Municipalities Community Tourism grant. Just under 13-thousand dollars was spent on the new logo which was drawn up by a local firm, Stephanie Tambellini Design.
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KISSFM POOL Results as at 6:30 PM
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Morning Star Poll Results at 6:30 PM
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From agenda Package June 22 P.52
The costs associated with this project to date has been $14,247.25. Of this, $9,896.25 was for the services of Tambellini Design to develop the graphic design, brand promise and facilitate the Branding Task Force meetings. An additional $4,351 from the Web Advisors was utilized for surveying non-residents and compiling the results. The funds were spent in 2014 and were taken from the Economic Development Projects Budget.
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Canada Trademark Registry Search
http://vernonblog.blogspot.ca/2010/01/city-of-vernon-unveils-new-logo.html
(Above Posting when last slogan was introduced in 2010)
The logo design project was funded entirely through a Union of BC Municipalities Community Tourism grant. Just under 13-thousand dollars was spent on the new logo which was drawn up by a local firm, Stephanie Tambellini Design.
======================
KISSFM POOL Results as at 6:30 PM
Do you like the City of Vernon's new brand "Activate Life" which will be used in marketing campaigns?
| Yes | |
|---|---|
| No | |
| Don't Understand It | |
| Don't Care |
Question of the Day
Do you like the new Activate Life brand developed for City of Vernon marketing?
Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Bike Rentals Tried At Info Centre
Posted on 5/26/2015 by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM
Vernon council is supporting a pilot project for bicycle rentals at the rear of the Visitor Info Centre on 39th Avenue. The four month project from June to September will be a partnership with the Downtown Vernon Association which will cover the costs. Councillor Scott Anderson was opposed, saying it gives a city enterprise an unfair advantage over other bike shops. "When in fact there's another bike shop downtown that may want to go that route. We should not be in the business of giving a competitive advantage for one business over another," Anderson tells Kiss FM. In lieu of rent, the city will get 15% of the gross revenue from the venture. Mayor Akbal Mund says it could catch-on with visitors. "For them to have the ability to just rent a bike and take it around town, the businesses would benefit from it. Everyone would benefit, so I see nothing wrong with it. The space is empty now," says Mund. Councillor Brian Quiring says a similar program is working in Kelowna. "They've got rental bikes in a big steel box and people are using them. If it gets more people out and into the downtown, it will ultimately be a good thing," says Quiring.
Vernon council is supporting a pilot project for bicycle rentals at the rear of the Visitor Info Centre on 39th Avenue. The four month project from June to September will be a partnership with the Downtown Vernon Association which will cover the costs. Councillor Scott Anderson was opposed, saying it gives a city enterprise an unfair advantage over other bike shops. "When in fact there's another bike shop downtown that may want to go that route. We should not be in the business of giving a competitive advantage for one business over another," Anderson tells Kiss FM. In lieu of rent, the city will get 15% of the gross revenue from the venture. Mayor Akbal Mund says it could catch-on with visitors. "For them to have the ability to just rent a bike and take it around town, the businesses would benefit from it. Everyone would benefit, so I see nothing wrong with it. The space is empty now," says Mund. Councillor Brian Quiring says a similar program is working in Kelowna. "They've got rental bikes in a big steel box and people are using them. If it gets more people out and into the downtown, it will ultimately be a good thing," says Quiring.
Friday, April 03, 2015
Hotel tax adds up for city
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Apr 3, 2015 at 1:00 AM
There are more people staying in Vernon hotels and motels and that’s boosting the economy. The City of Vernon received $535,746 in hotel room tax in 2014, up 22 per cent over 2013. As a result, the two per cent tax on room stays equates to room revenue of $26.8 million being generated by accommodators. This is an increase of $4.9 million. “We saw new accommodators in the last few years but to see growth of 22 per cent is pretty exceptional,” said Kevin Poole, the city’s economic development manager. “That’s all dollars back into accommodators’ pockets and hopefully it benefits other businesses.” In fact, Poole says people who stay at local hotels and motels wind up spending money at restaurants and shops, and exploring various attractions in the area. The $535,746 in hotel room tax will be used by the city to market Vernon as a tourism destination. “It means more money to increase our profile in the main markets of the Lower Mainland and Calgary,” said Poole. Along with traditional means of advertising, such as newspapers, magazines, TV and radio, the city is also emphasizing social media. That strategy includes websites, Facebook and Twitter. “We want to engage with visitors who want to learn about Vernon,” said Poole. However, to do all of that is challenging as there’s strong competition from other communities for tourists. “There are a lot of beautiful places in B.C. and it’s difficult to compete against larger markets but this increase in the budget will help,” said Poole. The highest-revenue generating months for hotel room tax in 2014 were $89,567 in August, $71,608 in July, $60,983 in June and $46,008 in May.
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Don Quixote Note:
The 2014 budget was only 395,000 and 2015 budget is for $425,000 !! The City's (taxpayers) charge for Tourism was $108,587 budgeted for in 2014. (actual still unknown)
There are more people staying in Vernon hotels and motels and that’s boosting the economy. The City of Vernon received $535,746 in hotel room tax in 2014, up 22 per cent over 2013. As a result, the two per cent tax on room stays equates to room revenue of $26.8 million being generated by accommodators. This is an increase of $4.9 million. “We saw new accommodators in the last few years but to see growth of 22 per cent is pretty exceptional,” said Kevin Poole, the city’s economic development manager. “That’s all dollars back into accommodators’ pockets and hopefully it benefits other businesses.” In fact, Poole says people who stay at local hotels and motels wind up spending money at restaurants and shops, and exploring various attractions in the area. The $535,746 in hotel room tax will be used by the city to market Vernon as a tourism destination. “It means more money to increase our profile in the main markets of the Lower Mainland and Calgary,” said Poole. Along with traditional means of advertising, such as newspapers, magazines, TV and radio, the city is also emphasizing social media. That strategy includes websites, Facebook and Twitter. “We want to engage with visitors who want to learn about Vernon,” said Poole. However, to do all of that is challenging as there’s strong competition from other communities for tourists. “There are a lot of beautiful places in B.C. and it’s difficult to compete against larger markets but this increase in the budget will help,” said Poole. The highest-revenue generating months for hotel room tax in 2014 were $89,567 in August, $71,608 in July, $60,983 in June and $46,008 in May.
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Don Quixote Note:
The 2014 budget was only 395,000 and 2015 budget is for $425,000 !! The City's (taxpayers) charge for Tourism was $108,587 budgeted for in 2014. (actual still unknown)
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| http://www.vernon.ca/services/finance/documents/2015-2019-Proposed-FinancialPlan.pdf p.88 |
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| Taxpayers Portion of Tourism Budget , (p.84) |
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Left Turn Light Added At Busy Site
Written by Glen Morrison 107.5 KISSFM Thursday, 22 January 2015 12:08
If you're travelling Highway 97, 32nd Street, through Vernon, there's a change to note. Left turn lights are now activated at the 39th Avenue intersection for north-south traffic. It was part of a deal between the city of Vernon and Transportation Ministry, in part to ease access to the new Visitor Info Centre on 39th. The city paid $50,000 of the cost, and the province the other $25,000.
Thursday, October 30, 2014
Complementary enterprise pitched for Vernon visitor centre
October 29, 2014 - 7:30 PM By Charlotte Helston INFO-TEL Multimedia
VERNON - A local politician wants to bring Vernon’s arts and culture to a main pit stop on any tourist’s jaunt through town. Expressions of interest are being accepted for a vacant section of the new visitor centre on 39 Avenue, and City of Vernon councillor Mary-Jo O’Keefe sees it as an opportunity. “I would like to see it celebrate some of the things Vernon has that are unique and really special to this region," she says. "So when people came to town they would know what a fantastic destination this is.” She envisions the space as an artist’s co-op, where tourists could watch artist’s at work and purchase local handicrafts. “I think we could be a bit more creative in our approach to this,” she says. Coun. Brian Quiring agreed it was a nice idea, but worried the concept was too exclusive. “Maybe in order to promote the downtown, maybe we want to open it up and not be exclusive to a certain industry,” Quiring said. Council directed staff to create a call for expressions of interest and bring the results back to the Tourism Advisory Committee for considerations. Council also heard the controversial new location is doing well, up 2,155 guests between June 10- Sept. 30, compared to the same time last year. O’Keefe says moving the visitor centre was part of a long-term vision involving other projects like Ribbons of Green. “It's hard when we have to do things piece meal... but I think in the long term when everything comes forward, people will see how visionary it was,” O'Keefe says.
VERNON - A local politician wants to bring Vernon’s arts and culture to a main pit stop on any tourist’s jaunt through town. Expressions of interest are being accepted for a vacant section of the new visitor centre on 39 Avenue, and City of Vernon councillor Mary-Jo O’Keefe sees it as an opportunity. “I would like to see it celebrate some of the things Vernon has that are unique and really special to this region," she says. "So when people came to town they would know what a fantastic destination this is.” She envisions the space as an artist’s co-op, where tourists could watch artist’s at work and purchase local handicrafts. “I think we could be a bit more creative in our approach to this,” she says. Coun. Brian Quiring agreed it was a nice idea, but worried the concept was too exclusive. “Maybe in order to promote the downtown, maybe we want to open it up and not be exclusive to a certain industry,” Quiring said. Council directed staff to create a call for expressions of interest and bring the results back to the Tourism Advisory Committee for considerations. Council also heard the controversial new location is doing well, up 2,155 guests between June 10- Sept. 30, compared to the same time last year. O’Keefe says moving the visitor centre was part of a long-term vision involving other projects like Ribbons of Green. “It's hard when we have to do things piece meal... but I think in the long term when everything comes forward, people will see how visionary it was,” O'Keefe says.
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Highway Left Turn Light Gets Funding
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Tuesday, 28 October 2014 06:00
Traffic flow on the highway through Vernon will improve by next spring. The city of Vernon has agreed to provide $50,000 to add a left turn light at 39th Avenue, in a cost share with the province. "It's about time and we're glad it's here," says Mayor Rob Sawatzky. We've been after the Ministry of Transport for years. We have to give our CAO credit. He called the ministry and made them an offer, and to their credit, they moved." The funds will come from a reallocation of part of the budget for a 2014 project on Pleasant Valley Road. Councillor Juliette Cunningham says it will help with vehicles trying to get to the new visitor information centre on 39th Ave. "And actually, I think what it will do is discourage people trying to turn at those intersections where we do not have any lights at all, because that causes issues as well," Cunningham tells Kiss FM. City Transportation Technician Amanda Watson says the new light will be installed by the Transportation Ministry by next March 31. The total cost is $75,000 with the province covering the other $25,000.
Sunday, October 19, 2014
Tourism tax supported
by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Oct 19, 2014 at 1:00 AM
North Okanagan communities back Vernon’s hotel tax for tourism marketing, but they aren’t being asked to participate in the program. The Regional District of North Okanagan is providing a letter of support to the city so it can apply to the provincial government for its hotel tax to be renewed. But the city is not looking to expand the tax beyond its border to other jurisdictions in the area. “There may be an opportunity at a future date but not right now,” said Kevin Poole, the city’s economic development officer, specifically of Silver Star. However, Poole told RDNO directors the city’s tourism marketing program has a broad scope. “Accommodators at Silver Star do not collect the tax. Any other accommodators in Lumby, Enderby and Armstrong do not collect but the attractions in your area benefit,” he said. A two per cent tax is charged on each room booked in Vernon’s hotels and motels and year-to-date until July, the levy has raised $305,167 for tourism marketing, The city’s primary marketing focus is visitors from Alberta and B.C.
North Okanagan communities back Vernon’s hotel tax for tourism marketing, but they aren’t being asked to participate in the program. The Regional District of North Okanagan is providing a letter of support to the city so it can apply to the provincial government for its hotel tax to be renewed. But the city is not looking to expand the tax beyond its border to other jurisdictions in the area. “There may be an opportunity at a future date but not right now,” said Kevin Poole, the city’s economic development officer, specifically of Silver Star. However, Poole told RDNO directors the city’s tourism marketing program has a broad scope. “Accommodators at Silver Star do not collect the tax. Any other accommodators in Lumby, Enderby and Armstrong do not collect but the attractions in your area benefit,” he said. A two per cent tax is charged on each room booked in Vernon’s hotels and motels and year-to-date until July, the levy has raised $305,167 for tourism marketing, The city’s primary marketing focus is visitors from Alberta and B.C.
Saturday, October 18, 2014
Visitors to Vernon up 26.9%
by Carmen Weld CASTANET - Oct 17, 2014 / 4:22 pm
The City of Vernon has seen a dramatic increase in tourists this summer."We collect a 2 per cent hotel tax and that has increased 26.9 per cent this year so far (compared to the same time frame in 2013). In 2013 we were only up 7.8 per cent, so we're seeing really strong growth,” explains Kevin Poole, Manager of Economic Development & Tourism for the City of Vernon.
Since 2010, tourism to the area has been increasing:
21.3 per cent in 2011, 16.83 per cent in 2012, 7.8 per cent 2013, 26.9 per cent in 2014.
The latest leap in numbers can be partly attributed to the addition of two new hotels. "We have new accommodations with the Marriott and Pacific Inn and Suites opening, we have 150 new rooms, and Sparkling Hills continues to grow as well,” says Poole. “Our hoteliers are seeing a very strong year."There was concern at the beginning of the season that moving the tourism centre would slow down traffic, but they also saw a healthy increase.The new location saw a 19 per cent increase in visitors over last year. Centre staff helped 12,991 visitors this year compared to 10,830 in 2013.“We had to make it easier for locals to get to our centre," adds Poole. The City of Kelowna had an increase of four per cent over 2013.
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The City of Vernon has seen a dramatic increase in tourists this summer."We collect a 2 per cent hotel tax and that has increased 26.9 per cent this year so far (compared to the same time frame in 2013). In 2013 we were only up 7.8 per cent, so we're seeing really strong growth,” explains Kevin Poole, Manager of Economic Development & Tourism for the City of Vernon.
Since 2010, tourism to the area has been increasing:
21.3 per cent in 2011, 16.83 per cent in 2012, 7.8 per cent 2013, 26.9 per cent in 2014.
The latest leap in numbers can be partly attributed to the addition of two new hotels. "We have new accommodations with the Marriott and Pacific Inn and Suites opening, we have 150 new rooms, and Sparkling Hills continues to grow as well,” says Poole. “Our hoteliers are seeing a very strong year."There was concern at the beginning of the season that moving the tourism centre would slow down traffic, but they also saw a healthy increase.The new location saw a 19 per cent increase in visitors over last year. Centre staff helped 12,991 visitors this year compared to 10,830 in 2013.“We had to make it easier for locals to get to our centre," adds Poole. The City of Kelowna had an increase of four per cent over 2013.
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| http://www.vernon.ca/images/uploads/council/agendas/packages/141014_1.pdf (P.100) |
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| https://www.networkstats.tourismbc.com/ReportDefinition.aspx |
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Visitor Centre Reports 12% Increase
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Tuesday, 14 October 2014 06:00
Vernon's new Visitor Info Centre has had a busy first season. That may surprise some critics who were opposed to locating it on 39th Avenue, feeling it would be hard for tourists to find and difficult for R-V's to access. Manager Teresa Durning-Harker says 9,335 people have visited the facility to the end of September, up 12.5 percent over last year when sites at the north and south entrances were used. "After several years of decline in stats for most tourist centres in BC, I think that's a real good indicator that we are probably in the right locations and that the economy is picking up and people are starting to move again," Durning-Harker tells Kiss FM. She says the only adjustment needed is to some signs with arrows that are a bit confusing to traffic from the south. "We're still getting one or two complaints a month about that." Durning-Harker says most tourists this year are from BC, followed by Alberta, Europe, and other parts of Canada. The centre is open year round, but starting today, goes from six days a week, to five.
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https://www.networkstats.tourismbc.com/ReportDefinition.aspx
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https://www.networkstats.tourismbc.com/ReportDefinition.aspx
Wednesday, October 08, 2014
City Hires New Tourism Manager
Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Wednesday, 08 October 2014 12:00
The city of Vernon's new Tourism Manager will start her duties November 3rd. Ange Chew comes here from Vancouver where she had over 20 years of marketing experience including with Tourism Richmond, Intrawest and Bellstar Hotels. Chew says she hopes to leverage her relationships with tourism groups and stakeholders to promote, and drive visitation to Vernon, not only through established markets such as B.C. and Alberta, but others as well. "I am passionate about local food and travel experiences," says Chew. "This role at Tourism Vernon offered me a chance to combine my love of B.C., wines, local produce and experiential travel experiences—skiing and snowboarding, water sports, hiking, fishing and so much more—by promoting a vibrant and multi-faceted city and region to the world." Kevin Poole, Manager of Economic Development and Tourism for the city says they are extremely pleased to attract Ange to the position. "We are confident that Ange's skills and breadth of industry experience will be an ideal match for Vernon and our tourism stakeholders and that she'll be able to build upon the success we've achieved to date." Chew replaces Michelle Jefferson in the position.
Sunday, September 14, 2014
Watson House showcases region
by Tyler Lowey - Vernon Morning Star posted Sep 14, 2014 at 1:00 AM
A new business is trying to promote other businesses in the Greater Vernon Area.Vernon’s Best Business Showcase opens its doors to local businesses Saturday at the Watson House, where the old visitors information centre was located next to the army camp.“We have quite a few great businesses here in town that people don’t know about. I want to help promote some of the best that Vernon has to offer,” said Barbra Moore, owner of Vernon’s Best Business Showcase. The house will display various businesses through retail items, brochures and signs. Experienced salesmen will operate the displays when companies cannot attend. Moore already has plans for florists, farmers, local produce, maple syrup vendors, realtors and jewelers to set up shop Saturday. “I think this will be a great opportunity for tourists or people new to Vernon to give them a chance to learn what we have going on here,” said Moore. Spots are filling up quickly. Companies sign on for one year, with an option to renew for up to three years and display their businesses on a monthly basis. The business is open all week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and features monthly specials, holiday themes and live music promoting local bands. Maps of Vernon will be on display, along with MapQuest on the Internet to help locate the businesses. To celebrate the opening, Mike Biden will be on hand for a book signing with his fifth book, Jewel of the Okanagan. There will also be kettle corn sold on the first two days, with all funds raised going to the breakfast club at Kidston Elementary Saturday and Mission Hill school Sunday. Vernon’s Best will also raise awareness for non-profit schizophrenia agencies and mental health. Moore moved to Vernon two years ago and has been a nurse for 11 years. A few years back, she owned a similar type of business in Port Perry, Ont.
A new business is trying to promote other businesses in the Greater Vernon Area.Vernon’s Best Business Showcase opens its doors to local businesses Saturday at the Watson House, where the old visitors information centre was located next to the army camp.“We have quite a few great businesses here in town that people don’t know about. I want to help promote some of the best that Vernon has to offer,” said Barbra Moore, owner of Vernon’s Best Business Showcase. The house will display various businesses through retail items, brochures and signs. Experienced salesmen will operate the displays when companies cannot attend. Moore already has plans for florists, farmers, local produce, maple syrup vendors, realtors and jewelers to set up shop Saturday. “I think this will be a great opportunity for tourists or people new to Vernon to give them a chance to learn what we have going on here,” said Moore. Spots are filling up quickly. Companies sign on for one year, with an option to renew for up to three years and display their businesses on a monthly basis. The business is open all week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and features monthly specials, holiday themes and live music promoting local bands. Maps of Vernon will be on display, along with MapQuest on the Internet to help locate the businesses. To celebrate the opening, Mike Biden will be on hand for a book signing with his fifth book, Jewel of the Okanagan. There will also be kettle corn sold on the first two days, with all funds raised going to the breakfast club at Kidston Elementary Saturday and Mission Hill school Sunday. Vernon’s Best will also raise awareness for non-profit schizophrenia agencies and mental health. Moore moved to Vernon two years ago and has been a nurse for 11 years. A few years back, she owned a similar type of business in Port Perry, Ont.
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