Manager of Economic Development Jennifer Miller presented Smiths Falls town council with a recommendation to award the tender for Visitor Services at Victoria Park to the Chamber of Commerce this year. Miller explained that earlier this spring the town put out a tender for Visitor Services. They wanted to ensure that these services were still provided to guests arriving in Smiths Falls (even though the perennially popular Victoria Park campground is not running this year).  Miller noted that Visitor Services at the basin encourages boaters to dock their boats and enjoy all that Smiths Falls has to offer, which is a key part of the town’s tourism strategy. 

The Chamber of Commerce received the highest score among Visitor Services proponents. 

Town staff recommended to council that they approve the Chamber of Commerce for delivering Visitor Services.  The report included the Chamber of Commerce’s proposed new initiatives for the service, which hit a high note with council members.

“I love the idea that they could include bike rentals and markets and music,” enthused Councillor Niki Dwyer. “The Chamber is very creative, as we all know,” said Councillor Jay Brennan, “they’ll make absolutely the most of what’s available down there, so I support this.”

Council’s support of staff recommendation was unanimous.

Article by Janelle Labelle