VITAL POLICY – Opinion – Tourism, a Gift to Jefferson County, Tennessee and It’s Economy, an Economic Resource Worthy of Encouragement

Jefferson County, Tennessee has a gift that few other places in our state have. That gift is a combination of natural beauty, proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a rich history that dates to the beginning of our nation, and wonderful friendly residents. If you were to pinpoint a place on the map of Jefferson County for high-class, high-value tourism, it would be Dandridge because it still maintains its small-town charm and has a vibrant, functioning, and picturesque downtown area.

Most small downtown areas have crumbled into ghost towns because of neglect and business exodus. The Dandridge charm has survived because of several factors. It is the center of Jefferson County government, is located on the banks of Douglas Lake, is the second oldest town in Tennessee, features a rich history and vintage buildings, and has expansive views of the mountains. How many towns can share the story of being saved from TVA flooding by First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, serve as the resting place of Davy Crockett’s marriage license, or have a house that was used at various times by both Confederate and Union generals during local battles of the American Civil War?

Dandridge is a tourist magnet for the best class of tourists, families, retirees, and history buffs. It is also home to multiple scenic event venues. Fishing tournaments alone bring significant income to local businesses. All these travelers need adequate lodging, many of which are looking for special accommodations such as cabin rentals, bed-and-breakfast, and lakeside residences for short-term overnight stays. They seek a more home-like environment rather than impersonal and drab hotel space.

Tourists that visit Jefferson County wish to avoid the madness of outlet malls, water parks, traffic, and trashy theme parks. Many of them are empty nesters that want peace and quiet and a nice place to stay. In Jefferson County, Dandridge is their prime choice. For the residents and their government, those tourists are a source of tax revenue, job security for workers, and an economic engine for retail sales that does not add significantly to the cost of running local government. Tourists sail into town, spend lots of money, and sail away until their next visit.

The event business is a growing segment of the local economy. Jefferson County and the Dandridge area are becoming the go-to place for reunions, weddings, gender reveals, marriage proposal parties, and church events. Local venues report destination events coming to the Dandridge area from all 50 states and numerous foreign nations. One venue has hosted recent destination events by travelers from Russia, Canada, and Australia.

All local governments should encourage those who provide lodging simply because specialized lodging is in short supply and high demand.

Jefferson County has an excellent tourism department dedicated to promoting and facilitating tourism. Headed up by Tourism Director Lauren Hurdle, the office facilitates festivals, tournaments, street fairs, and works closely with all the stakeholders of the local tourism industry. Photographers, videographers, caterers, restaurants, sound technicians, boat dealerships, and many other types of local business greatly benefit from tourism and Hurdle’s promotional efforts.

Short-term residential rentals are greatly needed to accommodate the high value tourists that visit and contribute to the local economy and should be encouraged by public policy.

David Seal is a retired Jefferson County educator, recognized artist, local businessman, 917 Society Volunteer, and current Chairman of the Jefferson County Republican Party. He has also served Jefferson County as a County Commissioner and is a citizen lobbyist for the people on issues such as eminent domain, property rights, education, and broadband accessibility on the state level.