Chamber and regional tourism agency outline marketing partnership for Carter County

Representatives from the Carter County Chamber of Commerce and Northeast Tennessee Tourism outlined a proposed three‑year destination‑marketing partnership that would continue the chamber’s operation of the visitor center and leverage regional marketing to increase overnight stays.

Frankie Baty, former Chamber president and local business owner, told the board the visitor center sends tourists to local restaurants, trails and events and that roughly 80% of the center’s visitors are tourists. Alicia Phelps, director with Northeast Tennessee Tourism, described an integrated strategy using digital media, geofencing and targeted markets (including Florida and North Carolina) and projected a positive return on investment.

John Rose, an economic‑development executive working with regional air service recruitment, said a minimum‑revenue guarantee program had helped bring additional airline seats to the regional airport, which in turn lowers fares and improves market access for local businesses and visitors.

The board considered a motion to approve $10,000 from Hotel Occupancy Tax distributions toward the Chamber’s destination‑marketing contract (a three‑year, nonrenewal agreement). Commissioners also approved invoice payment to Shouse Professional Services and several budget amendments related to marketing and other county needs.

Next steps: Contract details and the three‑year agreement will be processed through the usual procurement and budget channels; the board recorded motions and seconds and approved the funding allocation during the meeting.