Yes, you read it right.
Initially a very vocal opponent of Christiansburg’s participation in the regional tourism partnership, it seemed as if the cart got before the horse. Now, however, it appears a good process may be in place, with plans developed by the Blacksburg-Christiansburg Tourism Development Council (BCTDC) beginning to trot along – even during an economic downturn.
The tourism research provided to local government leaders is based on benchmarks, and data shows our community is well sited. Comparative numbers for lodging to marketing funding is barely adequate, and so must be focused and sustained for the long haul. There are, however, more tasks and opportunities than solely falling within the domain of the BCTDC.
If there is reason for any remaining frustration, it is because Christiansburg officials did not and are not taking a more progressive or proactive approach. Just one year after putting a contract in place with the BCTDC, the town is seeking to retain some portion of the 1% earmarked for the regional effort. It already collects another 6% through this same tax. When it began contributing 1% to the BCTDC, it also increased its share by the same amount.
Throughout its entire history -- even since when this partnership pitch was made in 2005, or conceiving plans for recreational venues 10 years ago -- the town has yet to define any tourism, community, or economic development, or even historic preservation initiatives (another economic engine).
No plans, no strategies, no goals, no timelines, no budgets, no incentives, no marketing, no committees. Nada.
The BCTDC now has plans and goals to support REGIONAL tourism development, but even given public funding it is not a solitary task. Citizens are stakeholders because tax dollars are involved. Businesses are stakeholders because tourism can provide real benefits to bottom lines. Local governments are stakeholders because additional tax revenues alleviate some pressure due to rising costs, without requiring much in additional services.
Christiansburg leaders need to become actively involved. This executive summary cannot be leveraged when specific opportunities remain regional concepts instead of town priorities. This means carving some funds out of the existing town budget, and marketing Christiansburg instead of expecting everyone else -- BCTDC and businesses -- to make increased economic prosperity and an enhanced community profile happen for them.