Tourism Pemberton discussed a host of new projects aimed at bolstering the industry and securing long-term funding at its annual general meeting (AGM) on Feb. 21.
Sitting at the head of a board table in a Blackcomb Helicopters building, Mark Mendonca—who was acclaimed president of the organization—sounded a positive note.
"This is the biggest AGM that we've had in the last six years in terms of people," he said looking around, "and I'd venture to say that this is the most things we've put on the table in a number of years."
The projects are being led by various members of the board, including Brad Knowles (of angling guide business Pemberton Fish Finder) who is updating Tourism Pemberton's website. The revamp will add a point-of-sales system so that people can book services from members.
Knowles said that the goal is to turn the website into a revenue generator. "Instead of a website hindering us and costing us money, I'd like to generate revenue from it," he said.
The organization has hired Pacific Analytics Inc. to carry out an economic-impact study on the revenue generated by tourism in Pemberton and its surrounding area.
Don Coggins, of Copper Cayuse Outfitters, updated the board on the study reporting that few businesses have taken part so far.
"What we need everybody here to do is to talk it up amongst the people that are out there," said Coggins. The gathered financial information will be presented in aggregate and not shared among participants.
The study will assist in Tourism Pemberton's efforts to secure Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT) funding, explained Mendonca.
To take part, businesses can contact Jim Johnson of Pacific Analytics Inc. ([email protected]).
The organization is hoping to see a two per cent tax levied on overnight stays, but in order to secure it, Tourism Pemberton needs the support of a majority of hotels and bed and breakfasts with at least four beds.
"I believe that the smaller operators are going to fully understand," said Mendonca owner of Grimm's Gourmet & Deli.
"If there was a tax levied on the food and beverage industry, to get us to where we need to be, I would be in favour of it."
Carlee Cindric, of Pocketful Productions, discussed the organization's growing social-media presence and its signature event, the slow-food cycle. The organization has 5,044 Facebook followers and another 4,123 Instagram followers, and uses the platform as a powerful way to market the region, she explained.
She added that despite poor weather, around 2,000 people turned up for the event, though that was down by 800 from 2017.
Mendonca also welcomed new developments by the Lil'wat Nation, naming the Ts'zil Learning Centre and cultural centre and the new gas station as positive developments.
He noted that the First Nation recently announced the development of an additional 25 new camping sites at Strawberry Point, signalling a strong commitment to tourism.
With Tourism Pemberton board members hard at work, Mendonca said he is confident that 2019 will be a banner year.
"I know we have a strong board, and we are going to make a big difference this year," he said. "We need to make sure that the communities around us understand we contribute a lot—and that we are going to fight for our fair share."
For 2019, Andy Meeker will serve as the board's vice-president, along with the following directors: Don Coggins, Peter Colapinto, Gus Cormack, Brad Knowles, Tyler Kraushar, Rob Megeney, and Daniel Shranz. Shirley Henry will serve as the organization's secretary general.
Tourism Pemberton is also planning an upcoming event designed to showcase area businesses and non-profits. The event—PemberTON of opportunities, a chance to share, connect, reconnect, and learn—will be held at the Great Hall on April 6. Some social media training will be provided, as a goal of the event is to create strong area ambassadors.
To register, please email [email protected].
