The Tourist Development Council (TDC) meeting held on October 16, 2019, in Flagler County, Florida, focused on the future direction of tourism development in the region. The meeting began with an introduction of Bill Geiss, a seasoned expert in destination marketing, who shared insights from his recent consultations with local stakeholders. Geiss emphasized the importance of community engagement and the need for a clear vision for the TDC's role moving forward.

Geiss reported that his outreach efforts included online surveys, face-to-face interviews, and focus groups, engaging approximately 100 individuals in Flagler County. He highlighted key issues identified during these discussions, including opportunities and challenges related to tourism funding, which he described as a significant concern for the council.

The meeting outlined three primary goals for the TDC: destination development, enhancing the visitor experience, and achieving organizational excellence. Each goal encompasses various objectives aimed at improving tourism in Flagler County.

Under destination development, the first objective is to increase exposure for ecotourism attractions, such as trails and beaches. Geiss suggested creating visitor experiences and packages to promote these areas and advocated for improvements in destination signage and environmental messaging. He also stressed the importance of partnering with local entities, such as the city of Flagler Beach, to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area.

Another objective discussed was to strengthen the county's arts and cultural offerings. Geiss recommended supporting the local arts alliance and developing an arts festival during off-peak seasons to attract visitors. He proposed the establishment of a governing board to focus on arts and culture as a defining asset for Flagler County.

The meeting concluded with a call for the TDC to consider its role as a proactive advocate for tourism, emphasizing that while some initiatives may not require funding, others will necessitate financial resources. The council was encouraged to think critically about how to address funding challenges while enhancing the tourism landscape in Flagler County.

Overall, the discussions set a foundation for future planning and collaboration, aiming to position Flagler County as a competitive destination in Florida's tourism market.