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Local tourism groups give updates; commissioners request reporting schedule and follow-up on signage
Summary
Representatives from the Betterment Group and Cherryville Chamber briefed commissioners on projects funded by tourism bed-tax dollars, signage, events and a pending transfer of city-held funds to a foundation; commissioners asked for regular reporting.
Representatives from the Betterment Group (Caney) and the Cherryville Chamber of Commerce updated Montgomery County commissioners on local tourism projects funded with bed-tax revenues and other local funds.
Betterment Group (Caney)
Presenters said the Betterment Group Foundation has managed funds transferred from the city to support downtown improvements, signage and small capital projects aimed at encouraging repeat visits. The group described four phases of projects that include signage and downtown aesthetic work, and said the group will present a strategic plan after funds are transferred. Commissioners asked for a formal February report each year showing how tourism funds were spent; presenters agreed to provide more frequent updates if possible.
Cherryville Chamber
Carol Stanton, treasurer for the Cherryville Chamber of Commerce, said the chamber moved tourism funds from the city to the chamber last year and has revitalized membership and marketing. The museum in Cherryville recorded roughly 600 visitors last year from 18 states and three foreign countries, the chamber reported, and the city plans a Cherry Blossom Festival and a mural project funded in part with tourism dollars.
Signage inquiry
Presenters raised a long-standing question about brown state tourism signs that may have been removed outside city limits; commissioners asked staff to investigate which agency (state or county) handled those signs and to report back.
Reporting and accountability
Commissioners asked for a standing February report on bed-tax expenditures and requested the groups return with updates before next year's February reporting period.
