The annual Economic Development Conference in Snoqualmie will take a close look at local tourism in its third year.

The conference, planned for 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, at TPC Snoqualmie Ridge, explores tourism’s impact on the region and ways for Snoqualmie Valley businesses to leverage their tourism assets.

“This year, tourism is key with the Tourism Promotion Area legislation having recently passed,” said Bob Cole, Economic Development Coordinator for the city. “It could have a profound effect on tourism for all participating cities.”

Conference topics include ways to tap 2010 Winter Olympics opportunities, impacts of the Snoqualmie Falls Park makeover, and the new Outside Seattle tourism Web site.

With 9.4 million overnight visitors each year in King County, 10 percent of all retail sales come from visitors, according to Cole. Approximately $420 million in state and local taxes come from visitor spending. Snoqualmie Falls is estimated to attract 2.2 million visitors each year as the second most-visited attraction in Washington State after Mount Rainier.

The conference is aimed at business owners, elected officials, government staff — “anyone with an interest in how our local and regional economy is fairing and what we can do to maintain and build upon our strengths,” Cole said.

Registration is $45 and includes breakfast pastries and lunch. Register at www.snovalley.org. Call (425) 749-6905 or e-mail to rcole@ci.snoqualmie.wa.us.