Hope Tourism Commission Meeting

The Hope Tourism Commission met Tuesday in the Fair Park Community Center. It lasted close an hour during which the minutes from last meeting were approved. January’s expenses were covered with a focus on the costs of repair of the Depot and the extra help at the visitor center.

Next was a discussion of payments and who was behind.

The majority of the meeting focused on the Klipsch museum and its events, Hope Downtown Network and Citizens Request. Becky Moore spoke about both the diversity and number of people drawn by the Klipsch museum. She stated that the lab would be open to 10-12 people at a time. She stated that the auditorium was a big draw and recounted a top Shakespearian actor performing on stage. She requested $5000 funding of the Klipsch Bash, which was approved. According to Moore, Klipsch events draw people from as far away as Seattle and England.

Mark Ross spoke for the Hope Downtown Network and the increase of businesses since 2017 – 34, number of benches and side rails (15 each) and noted work on the downtown flower bed. He stated they have projects every month and their goal is to be a Main St. Arkansas community. He requested the organization be allowed to participate in downtown events such as train day, allowing it to receive coverage for insurance. He also requested $1000 for advertising. With these funds given the organization would be able to fix up the building they have to use. This discussion was tabled until next meeting allowing details to be checked out.

The last part of the meeting covered the members of the Commission and the composition of the Commission.  There are a total of 7 members – two from city board, an at large member, and four others who are required to own a hospitality business. At least two must live in the city.

Interim City Manager J.R. Wilson covered legal issues and was consulted about certain issues such as the ability of the city to include Hope Downtown Network and the members of the Commission.  The meeting then adjourned.