Kentville is moving forward with a hotel study.
The idea has been discussed around the council table a number of times in the past two years. Town staff has received a $3,375 grant from the provincial Department of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism to help fund the cost of a two-phase study.
The town applied jointly with the Kentville Development Corporation Limited for the funds, which represent a portion of the total cost, estimated to be $13,500.
“A study will tell us if Kentville could sustain a hotel successfully,” community development officer Lindsay Young said.
The first phase will determine whether or not the town could sustain a hotel. If the answer is positive, a second phase would look at the ideal size, specifications and location for a facility.
“Hotel developers won’t even look at a community without a study,” Young said. “The town and KDCL can use the study as a way to attract hotel developers.”
Toronto’s PKF Consulting will be doing the study. A representative will be in town March 11 to meet with employers, town staff, sports clubs and associations, tourism associations and local hotel and motel managers.
Chief Administrative Officer Mark Phillips told council advisory committee March 4 there was room in the current budget to pay for the town’s portion of the cost.
If both phases are completed, Young said, the estimated cost is $10,125, plus staff time.
