In the heart of Avery County, the Board of Commissioners convened on October 6, 2025, to discuss a pivotal step toward enhancing local tourism. As the meeting unfolded, the board members expressed a collective realization of the necessity for an executive director dedicated to promoting tourism within the county. This full-time position aims to strategically plan marketing efforts, manage budgets, and navigate the complexities of occupancy tax regulations.

The board emphasized their commitment to promoting various tourism sectors, including agritourism and outdoor activities, while also highlighting the importance of supporting local businesses. They acknowledged the need for a director with extensive experience in the tourism industry, someone who understands the intricacies of spending occupancy tax dollars responsibly.

A key point of discussion was the formation of a search committee to find the right candidate. The board is eager to include commissioners and community members in this process, ensuring a collaborative approach to selecting a leader who can drive tourism initiatives forward. The urgency of this search is underscored by the board's goal to have someone in place by the end of the year, allowing for timely marketing of upcoming events and festivals.

The meeting also touched on the financial aspects of this initiative. The proposed director will be a county employee funded through the Tourism Development Authority (TDA) budget, which will provide benefits such as health insurance and retirement. This structure aims to ensure that the new director can focus solely on tourism without the distractions of other county responsibilities.

As the board members reflected on their journey from the initial stages of establishing tourism funding to this moment of strategic planning, there was a palpable sense of optimism. They recognized the potential to attract visitors who currently flock to nearby Boone, hoping to redirect some of that traffic to Avery County's own attractions.

In closing, the board expressed gratitude for the community's support and the opportunity to enhance the county's tourism landscape. With a clear vision and a dedicated leader on the horizon, Avery County is poised to embrace a future rich with tourism opportunities, benefiting both residents and visitors alike.