Wasaga Beach is distributing a survey, hoping to learn more about the businesses that operate in Wasaga Beach.

Municipal councillors Nina Bifolchi and Connie Gray are members of a committee that was formed to follow up on suggestions that came out of the tourism strategy done in 2007 and visioning sessions hosted by the town in 2006.

One of the recommendations from the tourism strategy is to complete a business retention and expansion study.

Bifolchi and Gray decided to get a jump on collecting data by asking local business owners for input.

They are asking Wasaga Beach business owners to complete a 13-page survey. The Chamber of Commerce is distributing the survey to its members, and Bifolchi and Gray are asking anyone else interested in participating to pick up a copy or get it online.

The survey asks business owners basic questions about their business with regards to location, type of business and clientele. It goes on to ask about the advantages and disadvantages to working in Wasaga Beach, advertising and local attractions.

"We are looking for a bit of direction from the local perspective," said Bifolchi. "It gives them a voice."

Gray said Wasaga Beach is looking at ways to expand into the so-called shoulder season and is hoping the survey will help identify target markets.

The say input from business owners is crucial to the process.

Surveys are due back at town hall by Jan. 31.

For survey information contact Jenny Legget at 429-3844 or e-mail jlegget@wasagabeach.com.