Monticello Tourist Commission met in regular session Tuesday evening approving several initiatives aimed at enhancing local events and improving the visitor experience.
At the recommendation of McFarland, commissioners approved purchasing 80 eight-foot
tables, 10 round tables, and 80 additional chairs, along with a small storage building to house
the equipment for the Aspire Center.. Officials said the investment will support community events and reduce the need for
rentals.
Commissioners also gave the green light to two downtown beautification efforts. Plans include
adding flowers and decorative pots throughout the area. In addition, new directional signage will be
installed to help guide visitors to key attractions and destinations.
Discussion also turned to the condition of the city’s little league fields. McFarland presented
the idea of installing turf on the infields and shared legal guidance indicating that tourism
funds could be used for such a project. After discussion, commissioners decided to take the
matter under consideration and possibly act at a future meeting.
Looking ahead, the commission briefly discussed the AJ Lloyd Project, which is to begin with the bidding phase soon. Members agreed to revisit how much funding should be allocated for tourism-related activities connected to the project at a future meeting.
Director McFarland gave a summary of events coming up in the next month associated with the tourism office. Tourism will be participating in the Chamber of Commerce Monticello Market Downtown on May 2nd. They will also be sponsoring a magic and hypnosis show at the Wayne County Gym for the High School’s Project Graduation with the ABC Office. Also coming up May 15th and 16th is the Monticello Spring Fest with live music both nights and vendors, food trucks and a free kids zone with lots of activities for the kids to do that is provided free of charge by the tourism office and ABC Office.
Commissioners briefly discussed the budget Fall Fest, with no action taken.
The next regular meeting is scheduled for May 19 at 4:30 p.m., though members acknowledged the date falls on Election Day and left the door open on the possibility of a special called meeting to replace it.