Hope Tourism Commission

The Hope Tourism Commission met Tuesday via Zoom for their regular monthly meeting.  First up on the agenda was a look at finances and the revenue from the 2% tax on prepared food and lodging.  It appeared most of those collecting the tax were up to date on remittance.

The Commission heard from Robin Rogers of Four States Living magazine.  Rogers is working on a Travel Guide for the “Arkansas’s Greats Southwest” Regional Tourism Association.  Rogers showed 8 pages of the proposed guide that deal with Hempstead County and the Tourism Commission were very complimentary of Rogers’ efforts.

The Commission heard from two representatives from Cranford-Johnson of Little Rock.  The reps showed the Commission some ads they have done in the past in specialized publications including an Arkansas Outdoor Guide and a publication aimed at motorcyclists.  The Commission approved two ads.

An update was given on the mural project for downtown Hope.  The Hope Downtown Network has applied for a grant for some murals to go on the Chamber building in downtown Hope at Main & 2nd.  The commission looked at some possible renderings from an artist from Little Rock.  The Downtown Network should know about the grant funds after the first of the year.

The Commission heard from Charlton Luker concerning the condition of the sidewalks on North Hervey both north and south of the interstate.  Luker, who managers the Holiday Inn Express, noted there is trash on the sidewalks on the overpass.  This was also noted by hotel owner Gary Chambless.  Luker noted that the Commission is spending time on downtown renovation and while that’s fine, “Hervey is the horse pulling the buggy and it’s not getting any attention”.  Hope Vice-Mayor Don Still agreed that the area needs work.  Mayor Steve Montgomery noted he will talk with the highway department which is over the area and ask is the Commission can help aid ARDOT in clean-up efforts.    The meeting then adjourned.