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Person County tourism authority reports roughly $57 million in visitor economic impact
Summary
The Person County Tourism Development Authority reported an estimated visitor economic impact of about $57 million, payroll near $11.96 million, 314 tourism jobs, and $94,000 in grants funded by occupancy tax; the board thanked staff and discussed digital marketing partnerships.
Julie Mabey presented the Person County Tourism Development Authority's annual report on Nov. 18, highlighting visitor spending and promotional efforts.
Mabey told commissioners the county's visitor spending was estimated at about $57,000,000 with a total payroll generated of approximately $11,960,000 and about 314 direct tourism jobs. She said the TDA distributed roughly $94,000 in grants funded by occupancy taxes to support festivals, trails, arts events, a bike park, and promotional activities. Mabey showed a new digital visitor's guide that will be printed and distributed at statewide welcome centers and noted the authority uses QR codes to keep information current.
The director identified local partners and volunteers — county parks, chamber, PCC, Uptown Roxborough Group and others — and highlighted promotions of fishing and guided tours, festivals such as the Flint Whitman Music Festival, and a mural funded by a private agribusiness. Commissioners asked about collaboration with Visit NC; Mabey said the TDA participates in Visit NC opportunities but that some state advertising placements are cost-prohibitive, so the county selects cost-effective digital options.
Commissioners praised the TDA's outreach and weekly updates and thanked staff and volunteers for tourism work that supports local events and economic activity.
