The ABC’s of the Citrus County TDC & VCB
If you are new to the world of tourism development and marketing, abbreviations like “VCB” and “TDC” may at first seem like alphabet soup. But a closer look reveals an efficient, community-driven marketing organization that helps guests discover our unique tourism amenities and businesses throughout the county.
The Citrus County Tourist Development Council (TDC) is a committee appointed by the County Commission to determine policy and authorize actions and marketing activities that will bring more visitors to our community. Funds for the TDC are derived from “bed tax” revenue, a three-percent surcharge on all transient accommodations (hotels, motels, bed & breakfast inns, campgrounds and other lodging leased for six months or less) within Citrus County. The TDC is composed of nine volunteer members. Four come from the hospitality industry, two from the business community that serves visitors and three represent the municipalities.
The day-to-day staff of the TDC is the Citrus County Visitors & Convention Bureau, or VCB. Led by Director Mary Craven, the VCB provides information and planning to potential guests while overseeing ongoing marketing communications, community relations and more. VCB team members and volunteers also greet visitors personally and provide face-to-face planning assistance at the Bureau headquarters at the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. When groups from outside Citrus County contemplate a convention or other type of gathering here, the VCB assists with advice about places to stay, meet, dine and engage in R&R.
Together, the Citrus County TDC & VCB have vaulted Citrus County to one of the state’s tourism success stories. Recent years have often seen state-leading growth in tourism revenue, and an emphasis on visitor service, community partnerships and marketing savvy will continue to distinguish Citrus County within the Florida’s tourism arena.
Please direct media inquiries to Mary Craven, director of the Citrus County Visitors & Convention Bureau at 352-628-9305 or mary.craven@visitcitrus.com or Keith Gold at GOLD & Associates at gold@strikegold.com or 904-285-5669.