Members of Tourism Sun Peaks (TSP) will see a four per cent increase in membership fees effective April 1. This increase reflects the general increase in costs associated with events planning and tourism, according to TSP’s executive director Naomi Kerchinsky.
The organization was able to delay the increase due to a pause in services in 2020, Kerchinsky said, explaining TSP has “absorbed” higher costs over the past few years.
“We had [an increase] all teed up, and then COVID hit. And during COVID, we actually still had member fees coming in, and that allowed us to create a bit of a cushion for those membership fees.”
Higher costs for contractors, rent, media, events and more contributed to the member fee increase, she added.
All business and property owners within the recreational area of Sun Peaks are required to join TSP, including Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR).
Classifications of resort land include a hotel lodging resort lot or non-hotel lodging resort lot, single owner large hotel resort lot, residential resort lot, and commercial, tenant or independent resort lot.
There was no member engagement on the increase, and Kerchinsky said the TSP board looked at the budget for 2026/2027, and after making cuts where possible still had a deficit.
“Part of that was looking to address, do we keep reducing expenses, or do we need to generate,” she explained.
The four per cent increase will result in around $20 to $250 dollars for organizations, not including major hotel operators.
SPR will also pay the four per cent increase to a maximum of $825,000, according to communications director Christina Antoniak.
“SPR also pays TSP fees on every other business we run in the resort, including all of our restaurants and retail in the village and the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel,” she added. “We do not have the final numbers for this year yet but with all fees combined, the total amount SPR, SPG and affiliated businesses contributes to TSP would be nearly $1 million.”
The budget will be publicly available in June around TSP’s Annual General Meeting.
The increase will help sustain year-round events, marketing and the evening shuttle service, but is not dedicated to expanding programming.
“It is to maintain the level and quality of service currently being delivered,” TSP explained in a letter to membership.
There is not an additional increase planned for the future.
“The board reviews finances annually and will continue to approach future decisions carefully and responsibly,” the letter stated.
Members who need support with their fees may reach out to TSP directly to discuss payment timing, and Kerchinsky said all are welcome to contact with questions, adding there will be a coffee chat for members Thursday March 26 at 2:30 p.m. in the Sun Peaks Centre boardroom
“I just want to ensure that everybody feels heard and feels part of this growth that we’re experiencing at Sun Peaks as we move into the future,” Kerchinsky said.
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