Val d’Amboise: the community of communes takes back control of the tourism office

IN BRIEF Tensions between President Christine Fauquet and the city of Amboise for over a year. Reorganization of the statutes and governance of the tourism office planned for December 12, 2024. Proposal to reduce the steering committee from 27 to 10 members. The community of municipalities aims to make the tourism office an effective strategic tool. Conflict over the tourist tax between Amboise and the tourism office. Christine Fauquet criticized for her management since her election in 2023. She contests the upcoming deliberations and has referred the matter to legal oversight.

In the context of a functional crisis that has lasted more than a year, the community of municipalities of Val d’Amboise has decided to intervene to rectify the situation of the tourism office. President Yves Aguiton will propose a reform of the statutes and governance of the Epic, with the aim of providing a more adequate framework and restoring an effective dynamic. This initiative comes at a time when tensions between current president Christine Fauquet and the city of Amboise have reached a peak.

À lire travel advisory for the United States for a popular cruise destination

A necessary reorganization #

After a period of marked tensions between local stakeholders, the decision to reorganize the governance of the tourism office seems inevitable. Yves Aguiton aims to transform the structure to better meet the needs of the territory. This change is intended to optimize the efficiency of the office, considered a strategic tool for the tourism development of Val d’Amboise.

A reduction in the number of members on the steering committee #

One of the key aspects of this reorganization stipulates a significant reduction in the number of members on the steering committee. Indeed, this committee, which previously had 27 members, will be simplified to just 10 members. This new structure will include 7 elected officials, including the president of the community of municipalities, and 3 tourism professionals, with representation from iconic establishments such as the Royal Castle and Clos Lucé.

Prioritizing the voice of Amboise #

As part of this new governance, the future presidency of the steering committee will be assumed by one of the designated elected officials. This choice will be submitted to a vote by the community council, which could mean the exclusion of Christine Fauquet, the current president of the office. Yves Aguiton emphasizes the importance of hearing the voice of Amboise, as the nerve center of local tourism, in the context of a common tourism policy.

Reactions to the change #

In light of this reshuffle, Christine Fauquet expressed her disagreement, accusing the elected officials of Amboise of wanting to reduce the representation of small municipalities and socio-professionals within the steering committee. She highlights her commitment to a judicious use of the tourist tax, contested by the city. Her intention to contest the deliberations with the prefecture underscores her desire to maintain a certain legitimacy in the decision-making process.

À lire Plunge in Expedia’s stock following a disappointing travel request in the United States leading to lost earnings

Conclusion pending #

As the community of municipalities of Val d’Amboise is about to implement this reform, tensions and controversies surrounding the management of the tourism office persist. This pivotal moment could redefine the contours of tourism governance in the region, emphasizing a more harmonious collaboration between elected officials and professionals in the sector.