Local businesses showcase economic impact at Inverness tourism meeting

The Citrus County Tourist Development Council (TDC) convened on December 11, 2024, to discuss key initiatives aimed at enhancing local tourism and its economic impact. The meeting highlighted the importance of local businesses and the role of tourism in driving economic growth within the community.

A significant focus of the discussion was the use of Zartico, a data analytics platform that provides insights into visitor spending and engagement across various points of interest in Citrus County. Council members emphasized the need to break down visitor data to better understand the economic contributions of local attractions, such as The Cove and the county's bike trails. This data is crucial for demonstrating the value of tourism to stakeholders and local businesses, helping to dispel misconceptions about tourism being a burden rather than a benefit.

The meeting also addressed the recent strategic planning sessions that included participation from TDC members and local commissioners, with nearly full attendance reported. The collaborative effort aimed to gather diverse perspectives from the community, including healthcare leaders and business owners, to inform future tourism strategies. The council expressed enthusiasm about the insights gained from these sessions and the potential for actionable outcomes.

Additionally, the council discussed the accessibility of Zartico data for local businesses. While the platform is not publicly accessible, TDC members assured that relevant reports would be made available to partners and stakeholders through the tourism page on their website.

In conclusion, the Citrus County TDC meeting underscored the vital role of tourism in the local economy and the importance of data-driven strategies to enhance community engagement and support for local businesses. As the council moves forward, the focus will remain on leveraging insights from recent discussions to foster a thriving tourism sector that benefits all residents.