Whereas rural communities near the United States border are experiencing economic challenges due to declining tourism, which is a vital source of income for local businesses and job creation; And whereas these challenges are primarily caused by aging infrastructure, limited marketing support, and intense competition from well-funded US destinations, making it difficult for rural communities to attract and retain visitors: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM urge the Province of British Columbia to address declining tourism due to aging infrastructure, limited marketing support, and better-funded US destinations, by increasing targeted investment in recreational tourism infrastructure, including parks, trails, ski resorts, indoor facilities, and outdoor adventure amenities, and by providing enhanced marketing support to promote these areas to potential visitors from the United States; And be it further resolved that the Province work collaboratively with local governments, Indigenous communities, and tourism stakeholders to develop a sustainable, long-term strategy for tourism investment in border regions, ensuring economic growth while protecting natural and cultural resources.
