Penticton company argues for value of tourism industry, asks provincial government for support

Photo: Hoodoo Adventure Company

A Penticton outdoor activities company has written an impassioned letter to the provincial government, lauding the value of tourism and pleading for support for the industry. 

Lyndie Hill of Hoodoo Adventure Company posted the open letter Monday, addressed to local MLA Dan Ashton, outlining the trials tourism-based businesses like hers have faced this year.

"As I sit here and update my spreadsheet projections with Fall/Winter expenses and explore creative ways we can increase revenues for the coming season, that due to Covid, are limited and much different than usual, I can’t help but worry for our future," Hill wrote. 

"Although I know often money speaks loudest and I am confident the financial value of tourism will become evident throughout this pandemic, I want to be an additional voice to express that the importance of tourism for our community and province reaches far beyond the increase of the visitors spend over a few summer months."

The letter then expounds the many ways in which the tourism industry provides value to the community — preserving history and culture, encouraging environmental education, employment opportunities for youth, to name a few. 

"What we do has a ripple affect that reaches so far beyond the common misperception that tourism value is just money spent over a few peak months. We know that’s important too, but this letter is to remind you that all the other things I’ve listed above will have an impact on our economy and the health of our communities forever and we need these things now more than ever," Hill wrote. 

MLA Ashton was moved by the letter, posting it to his Facebook page and assuring Hill: "This is such an important read. I plan on sharing this directly with Premier Horgan."

Read Hill's full letter here.