Update on Destination Oconee

Since joining the Oconee Economic Alliance (OEA) in April, Janet Hartman has been busy as Manager of the Destination Oconee strategy with the goal to drive initiatives that enhance the economic climate within Oconee County while accelerating efforts to continue to make the area one of the leading tourist destinations in South Carolina. “I’ve been with the OEA a little over four months and the Destination Oconee plan is actually something that has been in works for some time throughout the county. Lots of effort and lots of people involved to put this program together and I am really impressed with the work that came prior to my even joining the organization, but it is a comprehensive tourism, marketing strategy that is really backed with an economic development driver, so Destination Oconee is a county effort but it is going to involve all of the municipalities.” Hartman says her early work on Destination Oconee has been meeting with city leaders. “Initially I have been visiting with the cities to see where we can support and help them in different things with looking at their downtown areas, doing some assessments; what do we have, what do we like, what are the opportunities, and just working with groups to develop plans. It is nice to sit down and talk about the things you would like to see, if there is a vision and plan, it is much easier to implement that.” Hartman is charged with the implementation of Destination Oconee: Realizing the Future of Oconee County, as well as assisting with the continued revitalization of the downtown districts within the county. To learn more, visit www.InvestOconeeSC.com.