Orange County NC Website
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24 <br />advisory boards that take direct interest in the functions beyond <br />the involvement of the BOCC. <br />I have yet to meet with the Arts Commission staff. However, <br />among most county governments in NC this function is <br />managed via anot-for-profit or non-profit with some county <br />funding support. <br />I have met with the Tourism Director and discussed some of the <br />challenges associated with tourism marketing in our area. 100% <br />of the county hoteUmotel tax collected goes to its operation <br />($700,000/yr). Chapel Hill also has a similar tax. It contributes <br />$150,000 of its receipts to the tourism effort. <br />The Orange County room occupancy rate is between 68-72%. <br />Average room rates run $118/night versus $85 in Durham and <br />$90 in Raleigh. In a tight economy, room rates impact <br />occupancy rates. <br />There are no near term issues other than retaining and securing <br />quality staff in a competitive market. It is unlikely, occupancy <br />taxes can be increased. Thus revenue streams are a function of <br />room numbers, occupancy and room rates. <br />Economic Development is a complex function with differing <br />internal and external influences. The county needs a <br />comprehensive approach to economic development. There is no <br />uniform strategy in place. Staff issues result from attempting to <br />`sell' economic diversity and development as important without <br />a clear understanding of what ED is in Orange County. Beyond <br />general conversation in support of ED as a priority limited effort <br />or investment has evolved in support of unidentified end goals. <br />Currently there are economic development functions operating <br />in Carrboro, Chapel Hill along with the County EDC <br />20 <br />