Oro Valley establishes Tourism Advisory Commission to guide leisure-travel strategy

The Oro Valley Town Council adopted Resolution R25-22 on June 4 establishing a Tourism Advisory Commission to advise the town on tourism and destination-marketing matters. Councilmember Murphy moved for adoption with an amendment to set the commission’s regular meeting day on the third Monday (rather than the second); Councilmember Murphy seconded and the motion passed 5-0.

Paul Melcher, Community and Economic Development Director, said the commission will mirror some functions of other advisory bodies and provide specialized guidance on leisure-travel strategy, the town’s five-year leisure-travel plan, and the destination website under development. The initial recommendation is a five-member panel, primarily residents with hospitality or tourism-related experience, meeting monthly for the first 12 months to bring members up to speed.

Melcher said staff expect to seat the commission at an August meeting after soliciting applications and conducting interviews. He said the commission will be supported by the destination marketing manager (Crystal Frank) and by Community & Economic Development staff. The council asked about costs; the town clerk indicated limited additional costs would likely be associated with video/audio recording of meetings if vendor arrangements need to be adjusted.

Council adopted the resolution and approved the amendment to move meetings to the third Monday of each month for the first year; staff will publish the application process and return with appointed commissioners.