Humboldt County board considers funding for tourism and Project Trellis amid economic concerns

The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors recently convened to discuss critical funding decisions that could significantly impact local tourism and economic development. A key topic was the allocation of nearly $150,000 previously designated for the Humboldt County Visitors Bureau (HCVB), which is facing potential cuts amid concerns about declining tourism revenues.

During the meeting, officials highlighted the importance of a marketing assessment expected to be completed by the end of the year. This assessment aims to guide future investments in travel and tourism, which are vital for the local economy. Approximately 30 to 40% of the county's Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) revenue comes from short-term rentals like Airbnbs and VRBOs. The treasurer tax collector is working on a contract to better track these sources, which could provide clearer insights into tourism revenue.

Public comments reflected the urgency of the situation. Local business representatives expressed disappointment at the possibility of reduced funding for the HCVB, emphasizing that many businesses rely on tourism for their livelihoods. One speaker urged the board to reconsider reallocating the funds, arguing that maintaining support for the bureau is crucial, especially as tourism faces challenges in the current economic climate.

Supervisor Madron echoed these concerns, citing alarming reports of a 70% reduction in bookings from Canada and significant declines from Europe. He stressed the need for collaboration among local chambers and organizations to bolster tourism efforts, noting that the county's economic health is interconnected.

The board is expected to make decisions soon regarding the allocation of these funds, with discussions also touching on broader economic development initiatives, including childcare and broadband access. As the county navigates these challenges, the outcomes of this meeting could shape the future of Humboldt's tourism and overall economic resilience.