Growing Tourism Without Losing What Makes Us Special.

Bonnechere Valley already has what many communities are trying to create—a place people genuinely want to visit. Our lakes and rivers, trails, rural landscapes, farms, local businesses, community events, history, and small-town character all contribute to what makes this area special. I believe tourism can create opportunities for local businesses and bring new economic activity into our municipality. But successful tourism doesn't mean becoming something we're not. I believe tourism can create opportunities for local businesses and bring new economic activity into our municipality. But successful tourism doesn't mean becoming something we're not. The very things that attract people here are the things we need to protect.

Build on What We Already Have I would like to see Bonnechere Valley better connect and promote the experiences that already exist throughout our municipality. Our community has outdoor recreation, local events, agricultural experiences, businesses, artisans, natural attractions, and a rich history. Rather than relying on large-scale development to create tourism, we can look for ways to help visitors discover and support what is already here. When visitors spend money at local restaurants, shops, accommodations, and businesses, the benefits of tourism stay closer to home.

Tourism Should Benefit the Residents Too Tourism shouldn't only be about attracting more visitors. Investments we make in our community should, wherever possible, improve the experience of living here as well. Trails, waterfront access, recreation, community events, attractive public spaces, and a vibrant downtown can draw visitors—but they are also things residents can enjoy year-round. I want us to look for opportunities where community improvement and tourism can support one another. Protecting The Reason People Come Here Growth needs boundaries. Our waterways, natural environment, agricultural land, and rural landscapes are not simply tourism assets. They are part of our home and our identity. Tourism planning should consider environmental impacts, infrastructure capacity, costs to taxpayers, and the effect development could have on the people who already live here. Economic opportunity and environmental responsibility don't have to compete. With thoughtful planning, they can reinforce one another.

A Place Worth Visiting, Because It's A Place Worth Living I want Bonnechere Valley to be a place people discover, enjoy, and return to. But our success shouldn't be measured simply by how many people we can attract. It should be measured by whether tourism contributes positively to our businesses and community without compromising the qualities that make Bonnechere Valley home. We don't need to change who we are to attract people here. We need to take care of what makes them want to come.