Weather sponsored by:
Members of the Monticello Advertising and Promotion Commission discussed the city’s tourism marketing efforts, upcoming community events and a number of ongoing improvements during a meeting Monday evening.
Shannon Herman called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. in the Hampton Inn conference room. Along with Herman, Kim Patel, Andy Patel, Mike Wigley and Amanda Laudell were present.
One of the commission’s primary discussions centered on the future of Monticello’s tourism website and how it fits into the city’s efforts to increase its digital presence.
Commission members had previously discussed moving away from the standalone tourism website following the development of a tourism app. However, previous conversations with representatives from CJRW, the city’s tourism marketing partner, prompted members to reconsider eliminating the website.
Members discussed the importance of maintaining a separate tourism-focused online presence rather than directing visitors to the city’s governmental website.
The commission also noted that future digital advertising campaigns could direct potential visitors to the tourism website, making it an important component of the city’s overall marketing strategy.
Although the tourism website remains active, members acknowledged it has not been regularly updated and discussed making a greater effort to add current photographs and information.
Commission members ultimately agreed to continue maintaining the website for another year and approved payment of a $600 CJRW invoice for web hosting.
The commission also received an update on several projects underway throughout Monticello.
Laudell noted that new signs have been installed around the downtown square as part of ongoing beautification efforts, and new trash receptacles have been ordered to complement the appearance of the downtown area.
Additional improvements are planned for electrical boxes located at intersections. Plans call for the boxes to be painted with designs highlighting the University of Arkansas at Monticello on one side and Monticello on the other.
Members also heard a report on a recent rodeo held in Monticello. According to information presented by Laudell, the event attracted approximately 520 people Friday and 700 Saturday. Organizers indicated actual attendance could have been higher, but they can’t be sure of the number as people were caught sneaking in through the back gate. Plans to have stronger security are already being looked at for next year.
Laudell was told contestant participation increased in each event and organizers received positive feedback about both the rodeo and Monticello.
Several upcoming community events were also discussed, including Praise in the Park, scheduled for Oct. 17. The event is expected to feature three churches performing, along with food trucks and other activities. Additional lighting is planned following concerns that portions of last year’s event were too dark.
Plans are also moving forward for the city’s holiday activities.
A new Christmas tree has been ordered for the downtown square. The tree will replace the lighted structure used around the fountain last year and will complement other holiday decorations planned for the area.
Efforts are also continuing to secure donations for a proposed ice skating rink. Laudell said donations and additional commitments have already been received, although fundraising remains underway.
The city has also purchased lighting for its portable stage. Laudell said the purchase was more cost-effective than continuing to rent stage lighting for community events.
Recreational improvements were another focus of the update.
The city’s sports complex continues to attract tournaments and visitors from surrounding communities. Improvements are being made to areas around the complex that can become difficult to navigate during wet conditions.
Plans for upgrades to the Monticello swimming pool are also progressing. The architect is completing work on the project and has contacted the Arkansas Department of Health for necessary approvals.
Mayor Jason Akers said construction will hopefully begin in November.
The project is expected to include additional swimming lanes, which would increase Monticello’s ability to host competitive swim meets.
Georganna Cossey, Southeast Arkansas regional manager for the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, also addressed commissioners about resources available to communities through the state.
Cossey said she covers 12 counties and works with mayors, county judges, chamber officials, economic development organizations and others involved in community and economic development.
Her role includes helping communities identify resources and funding opportunities while connecting local officials with programs that can help advance projects.
Cossey highlighted the Arkansas Site Development Program, which can assist communities with infrastructure improvements, due diligence studies and other work intended to make industrial sites more competitive for prospective businesses.
She noted Monticello has previously received funding through the program.
Cossey also praised the community development efforts she has observed in Monticello, including the increasing number of community events.
“There’s really a positive vibe right now in Monticello,” Cossey said.
She emphasized that community development and economic development are closely connected, with quality-of-life improvements helping communities become more attractive to residents and potential businesses.
Cossey also encouraged local officials and community leaders to consider participating in the Community Development Institute at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway.
The three-year professional development program includes a week of instruction each year and covers subjects ranging from local government and housing to quality-of-life issues and financing opportunities.
Cossey said the program also provides participants with networking opportunities involving city and county officials, university representatives, banking professionals, utilities and private-sector organizations.
Registration for the next session has not yet opened, although a waiting list is already available. Cossey said last year’s early registration cost was approximately $550 and scholarship opportunities could potentially help cover registration expenses.
The commission’s next meeting is scheduled for Oct. 26 at 5:30 p.m.
