The Tourist Development Council meeting held on April 10, 2024, in Citrus County, Florida, focused on budget adjustments for staff training and updates on tourism statistics.

A significant discussion centered around reallocating $6,000 from a training budget initially set for staff member Terri, who has completed her Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) course. Terri's successful completion allows the council to redirect funds to support the training of two other staff members, ensuring continued professional development without increasing overall spending. The council expressed pride in Terri's achievement, noting that the CDME certification is a rigorous process that can take several years to complete.

In addition to budgetary matters, the meeting highlighted impressive tourism statistics. Kelly from visitor services reported that Citrus County welcomed visitors from over 16 states, with Florida, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania leading the list. Notably, Canada also ranked high among international visitors, indicating a strong interest in the area.

The council also discussed upcoming local events, including a casino night organized by the Colorectal Cancer Group, aimed at raising awareness about health issues in a light-hearted manner.

Furthermore, the meeting touched on the record number of visitors during the recent manatee season, which saw a 67% increase from the previous year, totaling 77,260 visitors. This surge in tourism underscores the area's growing appeal.

Looking ahead, plans for improvements in downtown Crystal River were mentioned, including the development of a new parking lot and enhancements to the Riverwalk area, which are expected to benefit local businesses and tourism.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued engagement and updates on future initiatives, emphasizing the importance of education and training in enhancing Citrus County's tourism brand.