The Citrus County Tourist Development Council (TDC) meeting on March 13, 2024, featured a range of discussions focused on tourism growth and community engagement. New TDC member Elvis Cole, who recently joined the council, expressed enthusiasm for promoting all areas of Citrus County, emphasizing the need for equitable tourism development beyond the well-known Crystal River.

Cole outlined his initial 100-day plan, which includes assessing the county's tourism landscape, engaging with local stakeholders, and launching a new initiative called Partners in Tourism (PIT). This program aims to foster collaboration among tourism partners across the county through monthly meetings, enhancing communication and sharing insights on upcoming events and visitor trends.

The meeting also addressed the current state of tourism revenue, with reports indicating an 8.36% decline compared to previous years. TDC members discussed strategies to analyze data and identify potential marketing campaigns to mitigate this downturn. The importance of data-driven decision-making was highlighted, with plans to utilize tools like Zartico for better insights into visitor demographics and spending patterns.

Additionally, the council reviewed the grant program, which is now open for applications. Members expressed a desire for clearer communication regarding the grants and their alignment with the county's strategic tourism goals. The meeting concluded with discussions on upcoming events, including the Nature Coast Bike Fest and the annual St. Patrick's Day parade, which are expected to draw significant visitor interest.

Overall, the meeting underscored the TDC's commitment to enhancing tourism across Citrus County while addressing current challenges and fostering community involvement. The next steps include ongoing stakeholder engagement and the implementation of new marketing strategies to attract visitors to all parts of the county.