Discover Central Mass briefs committee on regional tourism, committee votes to file report

Monique Joseph, president of Discover Central Mass, presented an informational communication to the Worcester City Economic Development Committee about the agency’s role in regional tourism and economic development.

Joseph said Discover Central Mass represents Worcester City and 34 other cities and towns and that the group’s mission is to attract visitors from roughly 50 miles or farther to generate visitor spending, tax revenue and jobs for local small businesses, cultural organizations and restaurants. She said the bureau focuses much of its outreach outside the region to drive new visitation into Central Massachusetts and highlighted film activity and meeting/convention bookings as examples.

Councilors thanked Joseph for the report and noted increases in occupancy and other indicators; Councilor Kay Toomey said she appreciated the bureau’s marketing work and local business partnerships. The deputy city clerk reported no online residents raised hands to comment on the item.

Chair Councilor Candy Merrow Carlson moved to file the city manager’s communication on Discover Central Mass. During roll call the record indicates Councilor Kay Toomey voted yes; a recusal was recorded for a councilor identified in the record as "Councillor Priscilla" (the meeting record indicates a recusal); and Chair Councilor Candy Merrow Carlson voted yes. The committee voted to file the informational communication.

Discussion versus decision: Joseph’s presentation and councilors’ remarks constituted discussion; the committee took a formal procedural action to file the informational communication (decision).