A new Visitor Information Centre operator is being sought by the Town of Smithers.
The town put out the request on July 31st with the previous operator being the Smithers District Chamber of Commerce.
“The town definitely values the relationship we’ve had with them over the years. They’ve done an excellent job at managing the Visitor Centre,” said Sam LeBlanc, Communication and Engagement Officer.
According to the town and the chamber, the decision was made to look for a new operator due to operating costs.
“We had been negotiating with the town about our contract for a year and unfortunately it didn’t come to a point were we could agree on something that was financially sustainable for the chamber and safe for the building,” said Chamber President Trevor Morris.
Only registered non-profit organizations are being considered to take over Visitor Centre operations.
Morris added he can think of other organizations that could run the centre well dependant on funding.
“I’m hopeful that something will work out because I do recognize the importance of the visitor centre to Smithers,” he said.
Some interest has been shown for a new operator according to LeBlanc with the deadline to apply having been extended by request of organizations.
The deadline for proposal submissions is October 10th.
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