As reported in last week's Westerly News, the Tofino council voted on the motion in council to work with us to "improve" the "operation" of the Pacific Rim Visitors Centre.
I would like to clarify if I may, that the "operational" agreement is not actually being discussed.
The District of Ucluelet, who owns the land, was very clear at our last meeting that the PRVC will continue to be operated by the Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce. Our operations at this time are NOT in question. Our discussions are primarily how the Tofino businesses can increase their representation.
SUSAN PAYNE/LOCAL VOICE SUSAN PAYNE/LOCAL VOICE
Our clients - that is, our "paid members" and more importantly our visitors -are more than happy with our excellent "regional" service and representation of the West Coast communities. We also have an excellent record with Destination BC and work with the First Nations communities as well. 90% of our time is giving general information about activities and services in the ENTIRE region. Our counselors combine their training to incorporate Tofino and Ucluelet, taking day familiarization trips to both, and in the past few years have trained with Tofino counselors.
During the summer months Tourism Tofino also provides a staff member to assist in visitor services. Ultimately we want the visitors to have the best possible experience on the West Coast, and if you read Trip Advisor and other sites, we have always provided "regional information" in an unbiased, positive and friendly manner.
I agree with Ms. Baert's comment that it cannot be called a regional centre without regional representation, however I would like to add, that we are only as good as our members (just like our Chamber) and as such, we REDUCED our rates by 55% last year, including to our out-of-town businesses (Tofino, Port Alberni and Bamfield Chamber members).
This was primarily to be inclusive and make it very reasonable and attractive for your business to be specifically represented. Our racking rate is only $100 (+ gst) per year. This is the SAME for all businesses in both towns. Considering we pay almost $20,000 in rent each year in addition to our other expenses, this is a pretty reasonable rate.
We invite everyone, specifically those Tofino council members who have tourism-based businesses and are NOT members of the PRVC, to visit the centre after March 1 when we re-open. Perhaps we can entice you to become a member so you can see for yourselves. We look forward to our continued discussions to increase business participation from our West Coast communities.
If you would like your business specifically represented (Tofino, Port Alberni, Bamfield and Ucluelet chamber members) at the Pacific Rim Visitor Centre, please contact me at info@uclueletinfo.com, or give me a call at 250-726-4641.