Randy Pogue

The meeting covered administrative matters, including updates on non-paying lodging and year-to-date lodge collection history. The 2019 BCTR Grant was approved with a $5,000 budget. Unclaimed money from 2018 reimbursements will be carried over to the 2019 grant. A new mission statement was adopted. A proposed tourism tax increase for 2019 and revisions to County Ordinance BE-1-03-10 were discussed, with further action deferred to the next meeting. Lynette Stokes' 2019 Independent Contract Agreement was approved, including a contract increase, and her 2018 bonus was approved. Financials for September 20-November 15, 2018, the 2018 budget, and the 2019 proposed budget were all reviewed and approved. Updates were given on past and upcoming events and efforts, including the Group Travel Workshop, Building Local Prosperity Program, a Missouri Division of Tourism visit, a new BCTR video, boat shows, Facebook posts, and monthly newsletters. Osage Lakes Greenway updates were also provided, covering meetings with the Kaysinger Basin Regional Planning Commission, Rock Island, and MDNR.

The 2022 Benton County Tourism and Recreation Marketing Plan focuses on increasing visitation and awareness of Benton County by leveraging its natural assets and heritage. The plan utilizes a multi-faceted approach, including increased social media marketing, print advertising in various Missouri publications, billboard advertising in key locations, digital marketing campaigns (including Google AdWords), radio advertising across multiple stations, event sponsorships, and partnerships with local organizations and businesses. The goal is to create a rewarding and memorable visitor experience and contribute to the county's economic prosperity.

Administrative matters discussed included updates on non-paying lodges and collection efforts. The revised budget, part-time personnel, and hiring were also addressed. Updates were given on contractors for visual asset procurement and social media management. Financials for November and December 2021 were reviewed. Other updates included the Benton County Barn Quilt Trail, various events, the Osage Lakes Greenway, and the Butterfield connection issue.

The meeting included the approval of a new chairperson following a resignation. Discussion regarding a new city representative was tabled pending review of the bylaws. The 2018 budget was updated, and financials were reviewed and approved. Updates were provided on non-paying lodges, collection efforts, events, trail route efforts, lodge meetings, corporate contributions, and marketing. The next meeting date was set.

The meeting included the appointment of a third check signor and a new Vice Chairperson. The 2018 budget was updated, and financials were reviewed for June 1-July 25, 2018. Updates were given on a non-paying lodge, lodging tax revenue, upcoming events, OLGC and trail route efforts, hospitality training, website additions, a press/media tour, MDT updates, digital marketing training, and a Building Local Prosperity Workshop for Businesses.