Council members on the District of Squamish finance committee have made themselves clear -after almost four years without a review, it's time to scrutinize Visitor Information Centre (VIC) operations.
With Coun. Rob Kirkham acting as finance committee chair, councillors made the suggestion during a VIC yearend report on Tuesday (March 2), presented by Chamber of Commerce directors Ron Anderson and Darren McCartney, treasurer Denise Imbeau and manager Kenny Music.
"For me I just want to ensure VIC staff isn't doing Chamber business. That's something that's very important," said Coun. Paul Lalli. "Through a typical average day, who's getting the benefit of that employee? Is it VIC or the Chamber? That's really the question."
Anderson explained VIC staff does at times occupy themselves with Chamber work, but only when employees don't have any tourism related work to do.
"If there's something that's VIC related, that always takes priority, absolutely always takes priority. But if there's nothing else going on, what would we have this person do?" Anderson asked.
Kirkham said there's long-term and short-term work ahead for the VIC. He asked Chamber members to review spending policies at the Adventure Centre, and look into short term cost saving measures.
Coun. Corinne Lonsdale urged the VIC to consider enrolling the numerous volunteers the town has to offer.
The Chamber operates the information centre through a fee for service agreement with the district - which is recognized as the official Tourism British Columbia Visitor Centre for Squamish.
Through the VIC, the district funds approximately 68 per cent of the Adventure Centre's costs, while the Chamber funds the remaining 32 per cent.
The VIC funds more than 70 per cent of the staffing costs at the Adventure Centre while the Chamber foots the bill for nearly 30 per cent.
Anderson agreed a review of VIC operations is in order.
"One aspect is making sure we have the funding in place to be able to carry on the business, the other is how we operate that business, and I think it's time we have a review of that. It's been three, almost four years now. So it could be time," he said.
