The Hope Tourism Commission met in the City Hall Boardroom on Tuesday (5-14). The minutes were approved and it was noted the Hope Visitor Information Center Depot Renovation is complete. Steve Montgomery raised the possibility of meeting there for nostalgic reasons and was told it was possible.

The expense report was approved. For the permits and payments three businesses were served certified letters. These businesses are paying penalties and interest due to being behind on their hospitality tax remittance.

Train Day was discussed.   The clown and magician were popular with the festivalgoers.  The boxcar race was a good addition and next year likely will include an adult category. Some of the rib cook-off entries were scared away because of the rain. All the kids had fun especially in the kids zone. It was noted attendance was slim on the evening’s last concert.

Steve Montgomery said the softball tournament was supposed to be held ; however, Softball USA cancelled three days prior. The city has taken over the tournament and rescheduled it to be held on June 15th. The tournament normally brings people into town and those involved can wander over to Train Day events.  Sharon Caldwell said there were still people there but not as many as the city wanted.

The July 4th celebration and fireworks will be held at the airport.

The Commission talked about the purchase of a new logo tent.

The interstate billboard was discussed.

Dr. Trevor Coffee noted next month the Commission will have the figures for the eclipse. Summer Chambers said she had communicated with Sevier and other counties. She stated expectations were very high but attendance was lower for them than expected.

City Manager JR Wilson talked about the possibility of an Eternal Flame Monument on Second and Hervey.

The meeting adjourned