The Tourist Development Council meeting held on May 8, 2024, in Citrus County, Florida, focused on several initiatives aimed at enhancing tourism and community engagement. The meeting commenced with a roll call, confirming the presence of council members, followed by the unanimous approval of the agenda and previous meeting minutes.

One of the primary discussions centered around the development of a new tourist map for Downtown Crystal River. Allison Pinkston presented the project, highlighting a collaboration with Twisted Arts Initiative to create a visually appealing map designed to resemble a pirate map. This map aims to guide tourists to local shops, restaurants, and parking areas, addressing current challenges with parking visibility in the area. Pinkston noted that the initial print run would consist of 6,000 maps, with plans for ongoing reprints funded through advertising partnerships.

The council also discussed the importance of wayfinding signs to improve navigation for visitors. Pinkston mentioned efforts to secure funding for redesigning these signs, emphasizing the need for a cohesive branding strategy that aligns with successful initiatives in neighboring cities like Inverness.

Another significant topic was the proposal for a historic walking tour map. Pinkston explained that this initiative aims to reconnect the community with its history by highlighting significant buildings and stories from Crystal River's past. The self-guided tour would incorporate digital elements, potentially linking to audio narratives about the historical sites. The council expressed enthusiasm for this project, recognizing its potential to foster a deeper connection between residents and visitors.

Throughout the meeting, members emphasized the importance of preserving local history amid ongoing growth and change in the community. The discussions underscored a collective commitment to enhancing tourism while ensuring that the rich heritage of Citrus County remains accessible and engaging for both newcomers and long-time residents.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the value of these initiatives, with plans for further collaboration and follow-up actions to ensure their successful implementation.