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Board adopts industry 'visitor' definition, leans on Kem Gardner and Utah Tourism dashboards
Summary
After debate over radius vs. out-of-county definitions, the board agreed to use an industry-sourced definition (Kem Gardner Policy Institute) and to add explicit 'visitor-related' wording to application questions; staff will allow counties to explain anomalous years.
Board members debated how to define “visitor” for eligibility and measurement before settling on an industry-sourced definition and adding application clarifications.
Several county representatives and Sheriff Tracy Glover argued an out-of-county threshold (or a 50-mile radius) better captures the relevant pressures on rural counties than limiting the definition to out-of-state visitors. "I don't think it can be out-of-state visitors only," Sheriff Glover said while noting many rescues involve nearby Wasatch Front visitors.
Selena, representing the tourism industry, recommended the board adopt an established industry definition from the Kem Gardner Policy Institute and supply that as the outward-facing standard in application materials. Attorney Cole encouraged using established definitions to avoid arbitrary rules. Staff confirmed they will include the industry definition and add repeated clarifiers to questions so counties answer only those items that apply to visitor-related incidents.
Board members also asked for a qualitative question that allows counties to explain anomalous years (wildfires, major one-off events) so unusual declines or spikes in visitation do not unfairly penalize reimbursements. Staff said counties will be able to note extenuating circumstances and that the division will refine guidance after the first round.
Why it matters: How the board defines “visitor” affects which incidents and expenses qualify as tourism-driven, which in turn shapes reimbursements to rural counties with heavy seasonal traffic. Using an established industry definition aims for consistency across applicants.
Provenance: discussion and decision appear repeatedly during the SAR/visitor-definition portion of the meeting (visitor-definition debate and confirmation by staff).
