City of Merritt looking to partner with Tourism Nicola Valley

The City of Merritt is looking to partner with Tourism Nicola Valley to deliver a new tourism model for the City.

Currently the City of Merritt runs its own tourism department however the head of the department is also responsible for Economic Development and Communications.

Recently, the City’s Tourism, Economic Development and Communications Manager Will George left the City for a new opportunity, opening the possibility to restructure the role.

One of the keys to the possible partnership would be setting a Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT), to collect up to 3% on short-term accommodation in Merritt.

The overall agreement with TNV would see a five-year masterplan crafted, with annual action plans being reported on regularly to the City and Council.

All Council member showed support for the idea and moved the following motion;

That the Committee of the Whole recommend to Council that staff work with TNV to develop a mutually acceptable agreement that would establish TNV as the provider of tourism services for the City and establish TNV as an eligible entity for collection of a Municipal and Regional District Tax.

AND that the Committee recommend to Council that a consultant be retained to assist with developing and implementing plans to support this transition, with costs of up to $20,000 from the Economic Development budget

The vote to approve was 6-0. Melvina White declared a conflict of interest and was not present for the debate. White is a member of TNV.