Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

In a close vote, Carter County commissioners voted not to renew its tourism contract with the Chamber of Commerce but did approve offering a one-year contract. It’s not difficult for people or agencies to get their feathers rankled – it only takes one person, one unkind word, or a bad move.

Apparently that is what has happened between the Carter County Chamber of Commerce, who has offices in downtown Elizabethton, and the Carter County Commission, which has shown some hesitancy about funding for the Chamber. It has drawn some ill feelings and words from Chamber officials, who used county funding from the hotel-motel tax to promote tourism.

In a close vote Monday, Carter County commissioners voted not to renew its tourism contract with the Chamber of Commerce, but did approve offering a one-year contract. If the contract is not approved those tourism funds will go into a reserve beginning March 9, when the contract ends.

There was a time when the Chamber consisted of only a director, a secretary, and a board. Now, it is a full-blown agency with its own group of employees and board. There is support for and some are against the funding. Apparently, something is working as tourism is on the increase in the county and city.

At stake is more than $300,000. Joy McCray, executive director of the Chamber, says the loss of funds will have a major impact on the county. The County Commission has yet to give a reason for not renewing the contract. McCray said the county saw $56.8 million in direct visitor spending in 2023.

Perhaps it would be good for the Chamber to make the community aware of its expenses, such as salaries, rent, promotions, etc.

It’s bad when government agencies cannot work out conflicts. Local government is the tier of public authority that citizens first look to to solve their immediate social problems as well as funding problems.

When we look at both the Chamber and Commission there needs to be openness as to what the problem is that the county wants to cancel the Chamber’s funding, Also, the Chamber needs to be open about its business.

We recognize and we are sure that the Commission also knows that tourism plays a significant role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the community. Visitors often seek authentic cultural experiences, creating demand for traditions, customs, and historical sites.

One of the most apparent benefits of tourism is its role in generating economic growth and employment opportunities. Tourists spend money on accommodation, transportation, dining, shopping, and various services, stimulating the local economy and creating new jobs. From hotels and restaurants to tour operators and local artisans, tourism fuels multiple sectors, providing direct benefits and supporting entrepreneurial endeavors.

Tourism plays a significant role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of local communities. Visitors often seek authentic cultural experiences, creating demand for traditions, customs, and historical sites. This interest motivates communities to preserve their cultural assets, ensuring historical landmarks, festivals, and traditional craftsmanship are safeguarded for future generations.

 

Tourism often leads to the development of community infrastructure and public services. Revenue generated can be reinvested in transportation networks, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and public spaces, improving quality of life for residents and enhancing visitor experiences.

The tourism industry enables small businesses and local entrepreneurs to thrive, empowering individuals to create guesthouses, homestays, restaurants, tour companies, and souvenir shops. This fosters entrepreneurship, promotes self-sufficiency, and diversifies the local economy, reducing dependency on a single industry.

Tourism acts as a bridge for cultural exchange, fostering greater understanding and appreciation between visitors and locals. Visitors gain insights into the local way of life, and locals, in turn, learn about diverse cultures and perspectives. These interactions encourage mutual respect, break down stereotypes, and foster a sense of global citizenship.

We are sure that both the County Commission and Chamber of Commerce know their roles and know the importance of tourism to our community.

Whatever the differences and problems between the two groups, we would encourage Chamber officials and the Commission to sit down and work out their problems. This is not the time to play cat and mouse. It’s time to be open and honest with each other to solve their problems about local tourism funding.