Canby budget committee allocates $25K for hotel site planning and marketing

The City of Canby Budget Committee convened on May 22, 2025, to discuss the allocation of funds from the Transient Room Tax Fund, which supports tourism initiatives in the area. Jamie Stickel, the Economic Development Director, outlined the two primary components of the tourism budget: tourism promotion and tourism enhancement. The state mandates that at least 30% of the funds be allocated to enhancement, while the remaining 70% can be used for promotion.

This year, the budget aims to continue cooperative marketing efforts with regional partners, including Mount Hood territories and Travel Oregon. Plans include revamping the newcomers and visitors guide, incorporating an interactive map linked to Visit Canby kiosks, and enhancing marketing through local businesses. Stickel emphasized the importance of local input, noting recent meetings with downtown businesses to gather feedback on promotional strategies.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on tourism enhancement, which typically funds tangible items like police barricades and hotel studies. This year, a proposal for a $25,000 allocation for architectural renderings to market potential hotel sites in Canby was introduced. This initiative stems from a hotel study indicating a need for additional accommodations in the area, as existing options like the Motel 6 may not meet the demands of corporate travelers or larger events.

The committee debated the necessity of this funding, with some members questioning the rationale behind attracting more hotels when one already exists. Stickel clarified that the goal is to provide more options for visitors, which could benefit local businesses and the economy. The proposed funding would not impact the general fund, as it is drawn from the Transient Room Tax reserves, specifically designated for tourism-related expenses.

After some discussion, the committee moved to formally allocate the $25,000 for the architectural work, ensuring it would be reflected as a separate line item in the budget. This decision underscores the city’s commitment to enhancing its tourism infrastructure and supporting local economic growth.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted Canby's proactive approach to tourism development, emphasizing collaboration with local businesses and strategic planning to meet the community's needs. The allocation of funds for architectural renderings is a step towards attracting more visitors and supporting the local economy, with further discussions anticipated in future meetings.