The Monticello Tourist Commission met Tuesday for its regular monthly session with
Director Todd McFarland, Chairperson Vicki Davis, and commission members Charity
Ramsey, Audra Branscum, Dylan Jones, Matthew Bertram and Maria Hopper in
attendance.
Much of the discussion focused on upcoming community events and tourism’s role in
attracting visitors to Monticello. At the recommendation of McFarland, commissioners
approved several sponsorships, including:
- $10,000 to sponsor the Monticello Country Club Golf Tournament in July.
- $2,500 for a 2026 season sponsorship of Monticello Market Downtown.
- $7,000 to sponsor this year’s Casting for Kids Fishing Tournament.
During the January financial report, McFarland said $61,757 was collected in
December. He also reported that a local business that had been seven months
delinquent in paying restaurant tax, bringing the
account current. January expenses totaled $43,062, with year-to-date expenses at
$88,236.
Springfest, scheduled for May 15–16, was also discussed. Commissioners reviewed
potential bands and activities aimed at younger children, as well as the possibility of
creating an adults-only area closer to the stage where alcohol could be permitted.
McFarland said once a list of available acts is compiled, commissioners will vote on
which act to hire, and the activities and other details will be addressed.
Commissioners approved allowing McFarland to sign checks up to $1,000 and
discussed hiring a contractor to photograph downtown and other areas for use on the
tourism website, which remains a work in progress.
The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 17 at 4:30 p.m.