If a much anticipated strategy is taken on, local events which have long been dependant on tourism promotion funds in terms of spreading the word may have to return to the drawing board.
Magellan Strategy Group is urging that around $350,000 on funds to communities by zip code for utilization in local promotions be used for promoting events, and expended on permanent items than something that could be rained out or disillusioned due to natural disaster.
“These possible turns of events certainly gets one’s attention,” said Carrie Keith with the Waynesville Gallery Association. “WGA has been fortunate to receive TDA funding to assist in promoting Art After Dark, which has shown major growth in the past seven to eight years with the help of their additional marketing funds.”
Haywood County Chamber of Commerce President CeCe Hipps explained that the chamber was provided with information many years ago that the TDA board was moving to decrease event funding promotions.
“Regardless of the decision made, the Haywood Chamber of Commerce will continue to operate to advance economic development and promotion of our businesses in Haywood County in support of our mission to create and sustain a successful economic environment,” she said.
