Economic development director reports job gains, tourism revenue and housing study progress

Page County’s director of Economic Development and Tourism told supervisors the department’s five‑year work plan has produced new jobs, businesses and substantial tourism revenue, while also underscoring constraints for future industrial growth.

Nina Fox said the county had recorded 363 new full‑time positions (more including part‑time), 264 new businesses and roughly $14.888 million in revenue associated with her department’s activity; she cited $104.9 million in tourism spending in 2024 and noted tourism’s local multiplier effects. Fox credited coordinated work with grants and the Tourism Council and highlighted major local investments such as the Blue Water Project (noted as a ~$46 million investment).

Fox told the board she is pursuing grant‑funded housing and transportation studies; the housing study was covered by Virginia Housing and a preliminary draft had been returned for edits, with an expected completion in late May/early June. She asked supervisors to clarify what types of industry the county wants to recruit, saying site readiness and housing availability limit prospects for industrial or commercial recruitment.

Board members asked about how tourism revenue offsets local taxpayer costs and about initiatives to keep businesses and jobs in the county; Fox said the county’s TOT, sales tax returns and short‑term‑rental property taxes reduce the average homeowner’s share of county costs by roughly $1,200 annually (based on VTC assessment). The board discussed zoning, comprehensive plan alignment and the need for an economic development strategic plan and site‑selector expertise if the county seeks different industry mixes.

Fox said staff will continue grant work, stakeholder engagement, and planning for a five‑year tourism management plan to present later in the year.