Laura Dean Bennett
Staff Writer
The Pocahontas County Commission addressed a brief slate of business at its meeting Tuesday morning, and they received good news from the 2017- 2018 annual report from Pocahontas County Convention and Visitors Bureau Director Cara Rose.
“Last year was a great year,” Rose said. “It was a great snow year.
“Last year’s collected hotel/motel tax reflected the second best year we’ve ever had, with 2004-2005 being our best year ever.”
Rose stated that visitors spent $28 million on lodging in Pocahontas County last year.
She estimates that Pocahontas County realizes approximately $100 million, all told, from tourism each year.
Rose will soon have a more detailed breakdown of tourism income to bring to the commission.
Highlights from the report included:
• Visitors survey has been conducted
• Progress on improving our mountain biking presence
• Budget breakdown and marketing plan for the next three years
• Continuing educational efforts
Commissioners approved the appointment of Holly Beaudoin to a part-time position as a 911 dispatcher with a start date of September 6.
Discussion regarding county employee identification cards was tabled awaiting input from the sheriff’s department.
The next county commission meeting will be Tuesday, September 18, at 5:30 p.m.