LT-2019-028 S&R - Laserfiche WebLink

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Response 1: Project/Event Description* This project is the Washington Search and Rescue 2019 Conference proposed for June 17-23 2019 in Ellensburg at a split venue of CWU and KVEC. Sheriff Gene Dana and Kittitas County SAR committed to partnering vvith the WA State SAR Volunteer Advisory Council (SARVAC) for co-hosting the SAR Conference in Ellensburg for a test run of the new model in June 201 B. It was split between the turnkey classrooms at the CWU SURC and the facilities at the Event Center. It received very high ratings and positive feedback from participants and instructors and most attendees wanted to see the model continue in Ellensburg in 2019. This Conference is dedicated to training for Search and Rescue volunteers and professionals. In 201 B, it started to become difficult to find a county to host it due to the burden it places on host counties. SARVAC decided they would change the model of the conference and take on the "hosting" in a turnkey style. Kittitas County was identified as the first choice based on the central location vvithin the state and ideal facilities for the training. The 2013 SAR Conference was hosted in Kittitas County at the Event Center. The Conference typically has 250-350 attendees. The conference is always open to the public and consists of a grovving vendor show and display area, air resource display, and this year included a "mounted shooter" show. SAR volunteers like to explore new areas and communities and enjoy recreation in the outdoors. This conference brings volunteers of all ages to Kittitas County, vvhere they eat in our restaurants, stay in our hotels, explore vvhat we have to offer, camp and stay here, and want to come back. The event is currently planned to remain in Kittitas County and we can expect word of vvhat we have to offer to expand through friends, family, and advertising. The Kittitas County SAR program was organized in early 1990. The program is overseen by the Sheriff's Office in a partnership vvith Kittitas County SAR, vvhich is a non-profit 501 c3 organization completely operated by volunteers. SARVAC is a statevvide volunteer organization that oversees training and other volunteer needs including training provided by Washington State Department of Emergency Management, vvhich provides funding for some instructors and specific classes at the conference. 2500 character lirrit List of Intended Use of Funds* Offset cost of using the Kittitas Valley Event Center 21 Projections of Increased Tourism Please provide the follovving estimates of how any money received vvill result in increases in the number of people traveling for business or pleasure on a trip: 1. Away from their place of residence or business and staying overnight in paid accommodations; 2. To a place fifty miles or more away from their place of residence or business for the day or staying overnight; 3. or from another country or state outside of their place of residence or business. You must provide the evidence utilized in determining your projections.