Commissioners consider study on Arches reservation's impact on Moab tourism

In a recent Grand County Commission meeting, discussions centered on the potential impact of the Arches Reservation System on local tourism and the economy. Commissioners debated whether to expand the scope of a proposed study to include broader tourism metrics, with the aim of understanding how the reservation system affects the community.

Commissioner McCurdy suggested that if the study could be funded through transient room tax (TRT) revenues, it might be beneficial to broaden its focus to provide more valuable insights for local businesses and tourism stakeholders. The conversation highlighted the ongoing concern about the reservation system's influence on tourism, with some commissioners arguing that a thorough analysis could either support or challenge its existence based on its economic impact.

Mayor's office representatives expressed willingness to contribute financially to the study, proposing to cover half of the costs if the scope was expanded. This collaboration could potentially reduce the financial burden on the county while providing a comprehensive view of tourism trends over the past few years.

Commissioner Martinez emphasized the need for a peer-reviewed study to ensure credibility, contrasting it with previous analyses that lacked rigorous validation. He argued that understanding the reservation system's effects is crucial for informing future advertising and tourism strategies.

The meeting underscored the urgency of addressing declining sales reported by local businesses, with some owners citing significant revenue drops compared to previous years. Commissioners acknowledged the community's struggles and the necessity of identifying the root causes of these economic challenges.

As discussions continue, the commission aims to finalize the study's scope and funding, with the hope that the findings will guide future decisions that could enhance tourism and support local businesses in Grand County.