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Tourism Committee to Define Action Items on Strategic Plan

From staff reports

Following last month's strategic planning effort designed to move the county's tourism efforts forward, members of the Scott County Tourism Committee are forging ahead. Even though the Scott County Board of Supervisors tabled any action on the proposed plan which includes a request for a tourism director, the committee met last week to discuss ways to increase tourist visits and money spent in the county.

Bob Etherton of Nickelsville was selected as the chairman of the group, following the resignation of Joe Fuller, who was serving as the current chairman. Sally Kelly, who headed up the county's Jamestown 2007 committee, was chosen as the vice chairman.

It's a worthy discussion - can Scott County capitalize on its obvious charm and resources to bring in visitors who want to stay a few days, shop, eat and enjoy the great outdoors. Members of this committee certainly think so.

"There is an indication that this board made up of volunteers is overworked and underpaid and not really accomplishing a lot," explained Etherton. "That's baloney. We've accomplished much and we can use this plan to move forward."

The new chairman suggested the committee should define the roles of each board member with specific jobs assigned based on their background and experiences. He acknowledged the loss of Fuller but added Fuller had agreed to be available for consultation if necessary.

Craig Seaver, manager of Natural Tunnel State Park and a member of committee, said the organization didn't need to get overwhelmed by the large amount of information contained in the tourism strategy but should consider five to 10 items to work on.

"Most groups don't try to save the world in one swoop," he explained. "We need to maximize our resources and grow in a step-by-step process. I think we can even use some part-time help. Sometimes I don't think this committee has gotten the credit it deserves and we need to let the people know about our successes."

Etherton suggested the committee prioritize action items on the strategic plan and set up another meeting for the group on Oct. 26. At that time, the committee members will narrow down five to 10 action items they think should be implemented.

Charlie Green said determining which action items were to be done needed to augmented by a timeline of development. The group decided to review the plan, prioritize and begin implementation in January, pending approval by the board of supervisors at their November meeting.

At the request of Bob McConnell, the committee agreed to donate $1,000 to allow the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association to set up a non-profit foundation to oversee the new Daniel Boone Interpretative Center. McConnell explained the organization needed to quickly earn its 501(c) 3 status under the Internal Revenue Code to be eligible for grant opportunities.

He added that money was in hand to construct the new facility and funding for operations had budgeted by the governor for three years but the organization needed at least $3 million to purchase materials and supplies for exhibits. McConnell said corporate donations as well as private foundations could give money but only to IRS-approved non-profit groups and these types of groups would be approached for future donations once the foundation was granted non-profit status.

Seaver, who made the motion, explained the request was in line with the tourism committee's charge and the new center will have a significant impact on Scott County. McConnell, who was recently appointed to the Virginia Tourism Corporation's Board of Directors, also reported on the recent VA-1 Tourism Conference held Sept. 24-25 in Hampton.

He said during the conference a large number of marketing representatives were present at the meeting, which proves marketing plays a major part in luring travelers into an area. "There is huge competition out there for tourists," McConnell explained. "Good marketing efforts convince people to come to where you are, stay awhile and spend some money. Once we get them here, it will bring benefits to our local businesses and encourage entrepreneurs."

Members of the Scott County Tourism Committee include Etherton, Green, Kelly, Seaver and Penny Horton. Applications are being accepted for the vacant position and are available on the county's website.

A full version of the Tourism Strategic Plan plan is available online on this site.

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