Title
Planning and Building Department, Economic Development Division, recommending the Board:
1) Receive a presentation from Isabel Domeyko from New Economics & Advisory on the Apple Hill-Camino Economic Impact Study that was completed in March of 2019; and
2) Provide direction to staff to contract with New Economics & Advisory to conduct a similar economic study for the Coloma/Lotus area. (Est. Time: 45 Min.)
FUNDING: Transient Occupancy Tax.
Body
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
El Dorado County has long been known as a tourist destination. Whether visitors come for the Lake Tahoe region, to explore the river valleys or visit Apple Hill, El Dorado County remains a place people are drawn to visit. As tourism has increased, it has become apparent that the County needs to understand the associated impacts, both positive and negative.
On July 5, 2018 the County entered into a contract with New Economics & Advisory to analyze the economic impacts of the Apple Hill/Camino area, including jobs and businesses, annual sales tax revenues generated, and transportation management costs incurred by the County to support the area. Apple Hill/Camino is known for agritourism, which is made up of farms, orchards, vineyards, wineries, wholesale fruit and vegetable growers and shippers, and has steadily become one of the most popular regions to visit in El Dorado County, especially during the Fall season. The goal of the study was to highlight the positive and negative impacts to better inform the Board on future decisions regarding the Apple Hill/Camino area as it continues to be a destination for tourists. Understanding how these industries play into the County’s economic profile is important so the County can continue to maintain a strong agritourism sector. The study looked at the role of agritourism, which mainly occurs on farms and/or wineries, and the economic activity it brings to not only Apple Hill/Camino, but the economic spin-off activity it brings to the entire County. ...
Click here for full text