Hope Tourism Commission

The Hope Tourism Commission had a special called meeting via Zoom on Wednesday (4-9) during which the commission approved funding of $10,000 for The Hope Downtown Network. The commitment is for three years but with an annual renewal. This is the same arrangement that the city has as well for a total of $20,000 a year.

The commission also met on Tuesday in which the regular business was covered. During this meeting March’s minutes, revenue and expenses, and permits and payments were covered.

Beckie Moore did a presentation on the progress of Hope Downtown Network through the years since becoming a Main Street program. The request from both the City Board and the Tourism Commission for $10,000 each was so the downtown network can hire a part-time director. This is a requirement for the downtown network to move up to associate level status. During the Tuesday meeting the matter was tabled to be addressed during Wednesday’s meeting.

Also discussed Tuesday was the schedule Hope’s 150th Anniversary Event.

The commission said they were waiting on a lease agreement with Union Pacific to move forward in repairing the loading platform. They will be scheduling a meeting for the visitor center renovation with the committee who met the museum consultant.

It was noted the Debra McMaster Softball Tournament went well. The recreational department will be steadily adding to the infield and has received many compliments on the new dirt.

The start of youth softball, baseball and T-ball and youth soccer was mentioned. Youth soccer has 204 players and the games start on Saturday (4-12).

Upcoming dates include the Easter Egg Hunt at Kelly Field, Youth Fishing Derby at Huckabee Lake, Hope Train Day, Jack Williams Softball Tournament and Sparks Fly in July.

The meeting adjourned.