Here’s a summary of the letter to the editor from Miriam Battson, President/CEO of the Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce:
Summary of Letter:
Miriam Battson addresses questions raised in a Gig Harbor Now article regarding the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee’s (LTAC) discussion on tourism funding. She outlines the Chamber’s funding history, noting a voluntary reduction in their request for lodging tax funds from $520,000 to $480,000 annually for 2025 and 2026, with plans to revert to $520,000 in 2027 and 2028 due to rising costs.
She explains that the Chamber took over the city’s tourism program in 2023, which involved startup costs for creating a destination brand and a dedicated tourism team. The Chamber prioritizes collaboration with local hotels and attractions to enhance tourism support.
Battson highlights specific tourism-related activities, such as funding events and marketing initiatives like a visitors guide with extensive distribution. She emphasizes the importance of having staff dedicated to these tourism activities, including a tourism intern.
Under the leadership of Tourism Director Rosalyn Rochac-Finnegan, the Chamber has received awards for its marketing initiatives and remains committed to being responsible stewards of public funds. Battson expresses gratitude for LTAC’s review process and looks forward to its conclusion.
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