City of Belleville looking to attract film/TV projects

Off the heels of Murdoch Mysteries shooting an episode of its TV show in the area back in June, the City of Belleville will be looking at developing a film policy to attract production companies to film in the city.

Belleville’s Economic Development Committee received a presentation looking back on what was accomplished in 2023.

When discussing investment attraction, it was mentioned that over the three days of production of Murdoch Mysteries, the city received $25,000 in fees and “private procurement” was $80,600. This meant a total of $105,600 was invested in the city.

It was also noted that the team behind the TV show had reached out to the city to inquire about filming.

Because of this, the city began exploring the establishment of a film policy as a part of its attraction and business development activities.

This includes the city currently being part of a regional task force that would establish the Regional Bay of Quinte Film Board.

Right now, Terms of Reference and policy guidelines are being developed before the policy would be brought forward to city council.

The hope is to have the policy brought forward to council in 2024.

Another step that will be taken is to work with Loyalist College students to help identify areas in the community that would work as site locations for potential film/TV projects.