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Tourism group may get new focus

Coldstream’s tourism committee will meet for a brainstorming session
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A group designated to consider tourism opportunities in Coldstream could be rejuvenated.

While staff had suggested the tourism committee meeting for September be cancelled because no agenda items existed, council has decided the committee will meet for a brainstorming session.

“It’s a good idea to let them speak up and see what they can bring forward,” said Coun. Glen Taylor, committee chairperson.

The committee has currently tackled all issues council wanted addressed.

“If there’s no energy and passion to follow it through, we might as well shut it down. But it’s not about us telling them what to do. What can they provide for us?” said Coun. Doug Dirk.

Coun. Richard Enns hopes the committee will be interested in tackling a number of tourism-related issues such as the future of the Kalavista lagoon.

“They can look at whether we’re moving to a wetland or reinvigorating the lagoon,” he said, adding that other possible topics are an inventory of tourism businesses and receiving community feedback on use of the Okanagan Rail Trail.

“We need to look at how Coldstream is presented in the tourism media.”

The committee’s mandate ends Dec. 31, but Coun. Pat Cochrane wants that extended into 2018 as the municipality determines if the West Kal and Kinloch boat launches should open.

“They may have a different perspective on canoe or kayak only, or motorized (vessels),” he said.