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Tulare County approves business, film and tourism work plans; board backs modest budget increase and possible new tourism post
Summary
The Board of Supervisors approved three Resource Management Agency work plans for economic development — business, film and tourism — including an 11.6% proposed increase and discussion of a tourism/film commissioner role estimated at about $150,000 per year.
The Tulare County Board of Supervisors on June 30 approved three work plans from the Resource Management Agency’s Economic Development Office: the Business Opportunities Work Program, the Film Commission Work Program and the Tourism Work Program.
Mike Washam, RMA associate director, described the office’s efforts to attract investment, retain and expand businesses through the BEAR program, and market the county through a "Tulare County Lookbook" and video storytelling. He said tourism is an important economic driver: "In 2025, visitors spent nearly $640,000,000 locally, generating more than 61,000,000 in state and local tax revenue and supports over 6,500 full time jobs," figures provided in the presentation.
Washam walked the board through film and tourism highlights, including recent production work and the acquisition of a 156‑acre ranch near Springville positioned for filming. He also introduced a new initiative, "Tulare County Business Voices," to collect business testimonials for marketing.
The proposed work plans reflect an overall increase of about 11.6% in program funding. During questioning, Washam estimated that creating or re‑allocating a tourism and film commissioner position would cost roughly $150,000 per year including salary and benefits, and said funding would be considered through the regular budget process in September.
Supervisor Pete Vanderpool moved to approve the work plans; Supervisor Larry McCarrie seconded. The motion passed 4–0 with Supervisor Townsend absent.
The board’s approval authorizes the programs to move forward; specific staffing decisions and any budget adjustments will be evaluated through the county’s annual budget process.
