Note: Was this behind the Coldstream referendum drive?A lack of proper facilities is hurting Greater Vernon’s ability to draw tourists, say marketing officials.
The Greater Vernon Services Committee believes more could be done to bring visitors and large events here as a way of bolstering the economy.
“Areas where Greater Vernon could capitalize on are in facility enhancement and infrastructure to host conventions and sport opportunities,” said Jennifer Strachan, community marketing co-ordinator.
“There are so many opportunities that Greater Vernon could welcome but currently we don’t have the appropriate facilities. The economic impact of events to Greater Vernon isn’t just about that particular event, it is about using that event to apply for funding and using that funding to enhance facilities and public amenities. All of which is a legacy to be left in the community for all to enjoy.”
According to Strachan, bids for the B.C. Seniors Games and B.C. Summer Games failed because of the lack of facilities.
“Another opportunity is to enhance or build a convention centre that doesn’t compete with our local hotels and not quite as high of occupancy that the new Penticton Convention Centre hosts,” said Strachan.
“Focusing on meetings, conventions and sport will definitely gain market share, provide much needed funding from the provincial and federal governments that will enhance public amenities, and significantly increase the return on investment, for all local businesses and the residents of the Greater Vernon community.”
GVSC has experienced a 22 per cent increase in visits to its tourism Web site, and hotels and attractions report they were up in numbers over last year.
“Greater Vernon has retained market share in comparison to other communities and that is exceptional considering other communities have the additional hotel revenue tax,” said Strachan.
“A significant part of this success is due to the amount of money that has been partnered by our local tourism dollars. It is also creatively making every dollar that is allocated to marketing and stretching that dollar as effectively as possible.”
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