Laguna Beach is gearing up for the summer tourism season with a visitor stewardship town hall scheduled for Thursday at City Hall. This meeting comes after weeks of Spring Break visitors have given a preview of the expected influx of tourists. City leaders aim to address residents’ concerns and prepare for the anticipated surge in visitors.
Last summer, residents reported increased incidents of unruly behavior among tourists, prompting city officials to take proactive measures this year. According to the Orange County Register, the town hall will focus on two main areas: managing visitor impacts in neighborhoods near the beaches and promoting respect for the town’s environment, culture, and heritage.
City officials are also conducting a community-wide survey to gather input on visitor stewardship and its effects on residents’ quality of life. The survey will help shape strategies to balance tourism with preservation efforts. Councilmembers Sue Kempf and Mark Orgill established the Laguna Beach Stewardship and Visitor Impact Ad Hoc Committee to develop a strategic approach to these challenges.
The city plans to collaborate with Visit Laguna, the marketing arm of the city’s tourism district, to align messaging that encourages visitors to respect the community. The tourism district, which funds cultural programming and economic development, has been extended for another 10 years. A portion of the funds will now be allocated to “destination stewardship,” focusing on artist housing, beautification projects, and environmental sustainability.
Councilmember Kempf emphasized the importance of visitors respecting Laguna Beach’s unique identity, comparing it to places like Sedona, which are known for their natural beauty and cultural significance. She anticipates a high number of day visitors due to economic factors, making it crucial to convey the town’s values effectively.
The town hall will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Laguna Beach City Hall. More information is available on the Laguna Beach city website.
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