Potential strategies for discussion include, but are not limited to, the creation of a tourism development authority, creation of a tourism advisory committee, increasing Ocracoke’s occupancy tax rate, contracting with professional marketing consultants, and improving collaboration between existing tourism promotion entities.

The Office of Planning and Economic Development publicly presented a completed study regarding Ocracoke tourism promotion to the Hyde County Board of Commissioners on Monday, February 2nd and to the Ocracoke community on Thursday, February 12th. The upcoming March 12th meeting will continue this discussion and provide additional opportunity for public comment.

The public is invited to attend. Public comment is specifically sought from business owners and others involved with the lodging industry, tourism promotion, and the Ocracoke Civic & Business Association. A copy of the study including appendix is available here:

http://hydecountync.gov/departments/planning_and_economic_development.php