Clearwater and District Chamber of Commerce would like to see District of Clearwater help pay for its tourism desk at the Wells Gray Infocenter.
Speaking during the regular town council meeting held July 10, Chamber president Jeff Lamond said the staff at the desk do more than just give advice to tourists.
They also are often the first point of contact for new businesses and residents thinking of moving to the area.
Lamond noted that although the Visitor Information Desk is only open from May until mid-October, the Chamber is required to pay rent for the desk space ($3,000) plus Internet and phone services for 12 months a year.
The money goes to Information Wells Gray, a consortium of businesses that leases the building from BC Parks.
The Chamber recently hired a manager and seeks to establish a strong presence on behalf of businesses throughout the North Thompson Valley, the president said.
He asked town council to support the Chamber during this rebuilding process.
Mayor John Harwood asked if there were any statistics that show the impact of the information desk.
Chamber manager Hettie Buck said such statistics are available.
Harwood said that, following usual practice, the matter would be referred to staff and any decision deferred until a later council meeting.
