Tourism Board Regular Meeting

Meeting recap

What happened, drawn from the records published after the meeting. Minutes

The board approved its agenda with an added item on canceling the September meeting, and approved three sets of minutes, including August 2024 minutes that had never been formally approved. The Alliance's Amanda Boyd reported over 8,500 visitor center visitors this year, up from about 5,000, with Instagram followers growing to 9,159; she highlighted a Ral-Eats food influencer campaign, a Raleigh Wanderlust content partnership, and growth in the West Hillsborough Walking Tours from zero to 16 attendees. Boyd announced she is leaving the Alliance and introduced incoming Executive Director Dani McIvor, a recent UNC history PhD. The Arts Council's Heather Tatreau thanked the board for $20,000 in support that helped Last Fridays break even, reported the gallery drew 5,000 visitors with 67% from outside Hillsborough, and said the events generated over $28,000 in income for 50 artists. The Burwell School's Emma Vadney reported a $30,000 net profit from its March auction gala, a June Juneteenth event, and reopening its schoolhouse after a preservation grant, though an HVAC closure will affect June and July visitor counts. The Orange County Historical Museum's Catie Atkinson reported 2,235 total people served through visits, programs and field trips, and two state museum council awards.

Staff reported food and beverage tax revenue was down slightly through May, which Vice-Chair Megan Kimball said could affect funding available for contract partners next year. The board voted to cancel its September 3 meeting due to its proximity to Labor Day and expected low attendance.

How the votes went

The board voted 4-0 four times: to approve the amended agenda, to approve all three sets of minutes, to cancel the September 3 meeting, and to adjourn.

From the published minutes.