Pender County tourism budget faces potential cuts despite significant economic contributions

During the recent Pender County Board of Commissioners Budget Work Session, a significant concern emerged regarding the future of the county's tourism department, which has been proposed for elimination from the budget. This decision has raised alarms among local officials and community members who argue that tourism is a vital economic driver for the area.

The tourism department, which plays a crucial role in promoting Pender County's attractions, has been entirely zeroed out in the proposed budget. Olivia, a representative from the department, emphasized that tourism and agriculture are the top industries in the county, generating approximately $200 million in economic activity annually. She highlighted the department's partnerships with various organizations, including Visit North Carolina and the North Carolina Travel Industry Association, to market the county effectively.

Miles Bielick, a member of the Tourism Development Authority (TDA), expressed his shock at the proposed cuts, noting that the marketing budget for Pender County's tourism efforts is significantly lower than that of neighboring areas. He pointed out that while Pender County generates around $4.5 million in room occupancy tax, the tourism department receives only a fraction of that amount, which limits its ability to promote the county effectively.

The discussions revealed that the tourism department operates on a budget of approximately $208,000, which includes essential expenses such as staffing and transportation. Without adequate funding, officials warned that the department would struggle to maintain its current level of service, which includes marketing efforts that attract visitors and support local businesses.

Commissioners were urged to reconsider the budget cuts, as the tourism department's work not only promotes the county but also supports local events and businesses. The potential loss of the department could hinder Pender County's ability to compete with neighboring counties that have more robust tourism marketing budgets.

As the board deliberates on the budget, the future of the tourism department remains uncertain. Community members and officials alike are hopeful that the importance of tourism as an economic driver will be recognized, leading to a reconsideration of the proposed cuts. The outcome of this budget decision will have lasting implications for Pender County's economy and its ability to attract visitors in the coming years.